I believe people deliver their best work when empowered with the freedom and authority to get the job done. I've learned that most people aren't even fully aware of their own potential, because the company structures around them stifle potential output. I consequently look to maximize the area that my team has to move around by minimizing restrictions placed on them.
Some of the greatest ideas follow the comment, "We've never done things like that around here..."
My answers to first 1:1 questions
Identifying the solution to a problem and not being permitted to go fix it (assume it's a worthwhile endeavor, and/or I don't have something better to do with my time). These sorts of problems are usually a symptom of crusty, outdated policy: what started out as a useful guideline to avoid a known pitfall has become an obstruction over time.
Conversely, fixing these issues makes me feel like I'm contributing, moving the team/product/company forward.
I'll usually say so. My wife tells me I wear it on my sleeve.
Tell me you see it, ask what's up, and then just help me talk through it. By that time, the problem has been rolling around in my head, building up. I tend to assume the worst, and presenting the issue to another person usually brings me back to equilibrium.
In person, video chat, phone, in that order. Human interaction loses so much nuance over email and chat, which is extremely important when providing constructive criticism.
As it happens. The closer to the problem, the better I can scope the problem to its source.
Private is generally sufficient, but recognition of suitable "weight" should be public. Occasionally letting everyone when you've accomplished something allows the team to celebrate with you, spreading the good vibes around.
I have the same mentality when handing out recognition to my team.
Building the relationship, which in turn improves communication effectiveness.
I've joined a team of true experts in the field, and I feel like I have a lot to learn! I need to bulk up on relevant technicals, to ensure I am representing the company to the best of my ability, and increasing our overall velocity. If you're not growing, you're dying!
Ditto the next 3 months, plus refreshing my consulting chops. Been a corporate guy for too long!
Open communication and honesty at all times. If you are dealing with a problem and I can be of help, let me know. If I'm the problem, let me know. If I'm not the problem but I can have an impact on it, let me know. I should never be surprised about where I stand with you, my team or my company.
[Stole this verbatim from Gary Foster, because I couldn't see a way to improve upon it.]
Zero hesitation come to me with a problem or question. I can't help you be awesome if I don't know when something's up.
Also an equal lack of hesitation to support your teammates. Offer to help, poke them when you think there's a problem, and share your war-torn wisdom.
Willingness to share your knowledge and experience. Our team has a very diverse background, and none of us knows it all. Sharing your wisdom makes the individual and the company better for it.
Donuts. Preferably with sprinkles, filled with creme, covered in icing, or any other crazy, deliciously awful concoction.
- Be honest, in all ways - If we cannot trust each other, we have nothing. Everything below is an extension of trust.
- Own your work - I take a very hands-off approach to managing your daily output -- you're a competent professional, and don't need a babysitter -- but with great power comes great responsibility.
- Look for improvements - Even if you don't execute on them, identifying areas that we are coming up short and then offering ways to make it better is literally the only way any company improves. This includes feedback on my management ability.
- Be quick to say "I don't know." - Admitting ignorance on a subject earns a lot of points in my book. We never stop learning, and no one can know it all. Talking through an area of weakness gives us all a chance to grow and improve.
- Tell me when/how I can do better - I am far from perfect, and rely on your feedback to improve. Perhaps contrary to usual instincts, I freely give away brownie points whenever anyone finds me lacking, and then has the guts to tell me about it.
TL;DR - My goal is to support you to the fullest extent you desire and require, then get the hell out of your way.
It's pithy, but there's a fair bit at play in there. I'm always available any time you have a problem or question. Never hesitate to come talk to me, we will work through it. I'll grant you the same courtesy in return if I see a problem: you'll know immediately, and have my unwavering support in fixing it.
When you're cruising along, my interference is only going to hinder your ability to deliver awesome results. You're a competent, capable human, and don't need anyone watching over your shoulder. I'd much rather sit on the sidelines, cheer you on, and celebrate your victories.