In the dynamic world of engineering management, effective communication and clear expectations are paramount. One tool that has gained traction among leaders is the Manager README. This living document serves as a personal guide for your team, outlining your management style, expectations, and how you can best work together. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of creating a Manager README and provide insights into crafting one that resonates with your team.
What Is a Manager README?
A Manager README is a document that managers share with their team members to convey their leadership philosophy, working style, and expectations. It’s an opportunity to be transparent about who you are as a leader, how you prefer to communicate, and what your team can expect when working with you.
Why Create a Manager README?
1. Sets Clear Expectations
By articulating your management style and expectations upfront, you eliminate ambiguity. Team members understand what’s expected of them and how they can succeed under your leadership.
2. Facilitates Better Communication
Open communication is the bedrock of any successful team. A Manager README encourages team members to communicate more effectively by understanding your preferences and knowing that you’re approachable.
3. Builds Trust and Transparency
Transparency fosters trust. When you openly share your values and expectations, you create a safe space for team members to do the same, leading to a more cohesive and collaborative environment.
Key Elements of a Manager README
1. Your Management Style
Explain your leadership approach. Do you lean towards situational leadership, adapting your style based on individual team members and circumstances? Or perhaps you embody servant leadership, focusing on serving your team to enable their success.
“The management style that resonates most with me is Servant Leadership.”
2. Expectations from Team Members
List the skills and qualities you value. Acknowledge that while no one excels in all areas, certain competencies are crucial for team success.
- Code quality
- Design and architecture
- Communication
- Time management
- Mentorship
3. Communication Preferences
Encourage open dialogue and over-communication. Let your team know the best ways to reach you and that you’re accessible, even amidst a busy schedule.
“If you need time from me, don’t hesitate to ask face-to-face or Slack right away. Don’t assume I am too busy.”
4. Feedback Approach
Express your desire for a two-way feedback channel. Emphasize that constructive feedback is vital for personal and team growth.
“I want to give and receive feedback—not only for me and for yourselves but also about the people and team you work most with.”
5. Availability and Work Hours
Clarify your work habits and set boundaries for your team. If you work unconventional hours, reassure your team that they are not expected to do the same.
“I sometimes work around the clock, including after hours and weekends. But I don’t expect you to work outside of office hours.”
Best Practices for Crafting Your Manager README
1. Make It a Living Document
Your Manager README should evolve as you grow and as team dynamics change. Regularly update it to reflect new insights or shifts in your management style.
2. Encourage Feedback
Invite your team to provide input on your README. This not only improves the document but also reinforces a culture of open communication. If you see a discrepancy between your Manager README and your behavior, invite your team to tell you. Understand that you’re learning too, and they can help you become a better leader.
3. Be Authentic
Write in your own voice. Authenticity helps in building trust and makes the document more relatable.
4. Keep It Concise
While it’s important to be thorough, keep the document concise to maintain your team’s attention and make it easily digestible.
5. Use It as a Starting Point
Remember that the Manager README complements, not replaces, personal interactions. Use it as a foundation for deeper conversations with your team.
Potential Pitfalls to Avoid
- Being Too Prescriptive: Avoid making the document a rigid set of rules. Instead, present it as guidelines that are open to discussion.
- Overloading with Information: Too much detail can be overwhelming. Stick to the most critical points that will help your team understand you better.
- Neglecting Personal Interactions: Don’t let the document replace face-to-face communication. Regular check-ins and one-on-ones are essential.
Conclusion
A Manager README is a powerful tool for fostering transparency, trust, and effective communication within your team. By clearly articulating your management style, expectations, and how you prefer to work, you pave the way for a more engaged and productive team environment. Remember, the goal is to empower your team members, hold them accountable, and create a collaborative space where everyone can thrive.
Leader's Whiteboard 