Giving Personal Attention
Being leader / people manager in company that goes with “work from anywhere” give us another challenge.
I joined 3 years ago at my current company, when Wuhan still never unheard of, starting from backend engineer position, with only around 15 engineers in total. Remote working was only an option (expect doing it once per week/2 weeks) and becoming a mandatory as we all know why. My career progressing well — alhamdulillah — stepping from small squad lead, to junior manager and now as Engineering Manager (EM). This is a big advantage as I know much already about my team.
Around Q1 2021 (1 year in pandemic), I had opportunity being an EM at a startup which the product I really liked. I was in doubt, hesitant, confusion. I will experiencing being people manager to the ones whom I never met before if I take it. Hence, I turn it down and choose to stay.
Couple times, I got question: “What is your managerial’s style?” I can say that “I do know you first, then let’s work together”. Knowing a little about my subordinate personal life — at least for where they live, they worked / studied before, already have family, kids, etc — is important for me. This usually make them easier to open for any problems/blockers that they have. Even I can get when they are looking for another opportunity outside the company.
Your secret safe with me ~ Charlie Kenton — Real Steel.
It’s quite tricky to get this personal life out from anyone, even just a little. Mostly, we want to separate between our personal daily life and work life. So, here we go.
- One thing that I usually do is I start with my own personal story at our very first 1-on-1 session. First impression is the key. I’m not gonna discuss about work at all at this very important moment.
- Care. As you already know a little about him, start your 1-on-1 session with asking how their most important do. At least, ask if their in good condition or not and be specific. If they have 2 kids, ask about each of them. This can make them feel respected as your subordinate.
I believe every manager have their own way to make everything works for them. Always keep your own mental healthy and strong.
