Sunday, April 26, 2020

Let's be optimistic!


The COVID pandemic has locked all of us inside homes. But things are not going to be the same forever. I am optimistic we can all get out of this within a few months and lead normal lives - go to work everyday, meet people in conference rooms, socialize, and have dinner with family and friends. Let's be optimistic about our future. I hear a lot of people losing their jobs, which is always not pleasant for them or their families. I also think the pandemic has caused a lot of people to look more inward (including me) and contemplate what is important in our lives. One thing that is very clear, let us utilize this time to do what is important - spend time with family, talk to friends, and learn something new. It is also important to go back to the basics and think what values are important for us in our life and work. I wish we can spend time collectively to learn from each other and reflect on values. I hope to start (and continue) a series of blog posts where I can share my thoughts and more importantly, I can learn from all your comments and thoughts. Request your support.

Saturday, March 14, 2015

Manager Chat

Notes from Manager chat (tcworld 2015 conference, Bangalore). Thanks to all those who attended.

Sorry I am not able to expand on all the topics.

  • Importance of influence: How can a manager influence/steer the team? 
  • Getting the best value from the team. Some examples:
    • University Engagement: Involving experienced Tech Writers to train interested university students in Tech Writing.
    • Development plan: Managers need to look beyond their immediate department when looking for growth opportunities for their team. A Tech Writer could have project management skills and s/he could be encouraged to apply for a PM opening in another department.
    • Set up a DITA competency center to help teach or learn DITA skills.
  • How can you sell ideas to your company?
  • Competence Model for Tech Writers:
    • Communication
    • Technical
  • Managers must lead by example. Importance of Situational Leadership.
  • How can managers keep the team motivated?
  • Work from home - Pros & Cons.
  • Motivation - types of employees
    • Greedy (wants to grow - but does not want to work for that)
    • Ambitious (wants to grow, and willing to put in the effort)
    • Just doing the job
  • Incentives
    • Awards/Motivation