Agile
Scrum Master Panel Discussion @ Clayton Homes
- I was one of three panelists (Gretchen Node, Arash Farsi); facilitated by Joanna Holbrook.
- We talked about the Scrum Master role with focuses on inspiration, motivation, tactical tips, and how others can get interested in this role.
Career
Finding Direction When You’re Feeling Lost (via Harvard Business Review)
- Belonging — we need to feel part of a group with meaningful relationships
- Purpose — we need direction and goals to look forward to
- Competence — we need confidence in our ability to meet challenges ahead of us
- Control — we need to feel our choices are ours to make
- Transcendence — we need to connect ourselves purposely to our community and society at large
Negotiating Your Next Job (via Harvard Business Review)
Most people limit the scope of negotiation to compensation. Work backward from where you want to be, and negotiate for the job to help you achieve that.
Communication
Stop Scripting Your Speeches (via Harvard Business Review)
I can understand the author’s point, where you get too caught up in delivering your own polished presentation and make it less about engaging authentically. There are cases where having your speech written is desirable. The tips of creating an outline, filling in “cheat sheet” notes to keep you on track, and then practicing delivery are worthwhile.
Leadership
Giving Critical Feedback Is Even Harder Remotely (via Harvard Business Review)
- Start by asking questions
- Offer appreciation before criticism
- State your good intentions
- Clarify and contrast
- Have the other person state their key takeaways
Software development
A Common-Sense Guide to Data Structures and Algorithms (Part 8)
This week’s book club discussion was about binary search trees and heaps.
Stress
How to Stay Motivated When You’re (Still) Stuck at Home (via Harvard Business Review)
Although there are some small actionable steps mentioned in the article to help with self-care and acknowledging what you can change and what you can’t, many of the actions likely to make a real difference come from a place of privilege (e.g., hiring someone to help with your kids, moving to another state).