Hello world, we're Tyler from the USA and Jan from Germany, colleagues at a multinational company but in very different roles —Tyler in Software Product Management and Jan in Controlling. What started as an idea has now become this blog, a place to share and reflect on the significant and mundane moments that impact us. From professional breakthroughs to everyday occurrences, we aim to capture these experiences, highlighting how they influence our behavior, interactions, and growth.
Join us as we explore these moments, big and small, to see where it leads us.
Our first OKR cycle started off strong, our OKR coach introduced the concept and methodology to our team, we had the review and retrospective based on our previous metrics, and began the planning session...this is where things got a little fuzzy. Disclaimer, we're okay with fuzzy, and it is usually necessary to learn and try something new...
Read MoreI used to think formal leadership training was more about ticking boxes than real growth. I worried it might distract from genuinely growing as a leader through day to day work and team interactions. But my views have changed since starting our company's program. I found unexpected value in the program, particularly through exercises like the elevator pitch challenge, requesting and analyzing feedback from team members, and learning from new connections within our large global company.
Read MoreRecently, I had an enlightening conversation with a colleague, Alex, that challenged and refined my approach to leadership. The discussion centered on how I could empower my team more effectively, minimizing the pitfalls of micromanagement and my desire to control or make everything perfect to my standard. Which by the way, is not always the best standard for the team or product...no matter how hard I try to convince them. At the same time, I realize the value in constructive tension and debate, trying to keep and open mind but not an empty had has proven to be a differentiator for our team...creating new value that could have otherwise been untaped.
Read MoreIn the next section of my 'Working with Tyler' document, I discuss areas I aim to improve. Doing this, helped me critically assess my progress towards the goals and expectations I've set for myself and others. It serves as a daily or weekly checkpoint that keeps my growth on track and transparently communicates my focus areas to colleagues. More importantly, it underscores my openness to feedback from others.
Read MoreIn a recent conversation with a colleague, we delved into a frequently overlooked aspect of our work life—bringing one's full self to the workplace. He shared an "aha" moment that occurred during a face-to-face discussion with another team member. It dawned on him that he could contribute far more to their global working group than he initially thought. Previously, he believed his role was merely to represent a regional viewpoint and follow the processes defined by a few global team members.
Read MoreThe first section my "working with me doc" is about My Commitments to You and My Expectations from You. This reflection was a lot of fun and helped me better understand what I value. It is a long list right now and I can't decide which to remove...over time I imagine it will shrink a bit.
Read MoreHave you heard about "working with me" documents? They're worth doing, even if you never share them with anyone. In this series, I'll explain my experience and results.
Read MoreOnly thirty pages into Kim Scott's "Radical Candor", I've already been deeply influenced by its approach to authentic communication and building genuine relationships. This book, recommended by Tyler, transcends its management focus, offering vital lessons on empathy and honesty in everyday interactions.
Read MoreIn this moment, Jan and I (Tyler), have decided we're going to start a blog. It's taken us wayyyy more than a moment to go from talking about it to writing it...but here we are, our first post!
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