Hiring for Your Best Software Team PossibleSoftware teams spend a lot of time thinking about processes and requirements for development so that we can build great software systems. However, we seem to think much less about how to hire the people for the teams that will build those systems. Consider these points to assemble your best possible team.
Why Process Standardization Is a Terrible IdeaHaving a standard process everyone uses makes sense in theory. You could compare metrics and progress across teams and projects. But it practice, it becomes like comparing apples and oranges. Teams aren't all the same, and neither are projects. Each team need its own optimized way to deliver value.
Develop Your Listening Skills to Become a Better LeaderListening is key to effective people management and professional mastery, but it may be the most underrated leadership skill. Having a model for what good listening is, and some techniques to practice, can help you become not only a better listener, but also a better leader and learner.
How Not to Make a Persuasive CasePersuasion skills can be learned just like any other skills, and they are a key part of being able to influence others to help you achieve your objectives. If you're looking to convince your manager or coworker of something, knowing what not to do or say is just as important. Here are some tips.
The Art of People Facilitation: Servant Leadership and Team DynamicsSome senior level staff in various organizations struggle to embrace certain modern concepts of leadership and facilitation. Emotional intelligence, observation, and skilled listening all play into modern servant leadership. It is a new art among agile managers, but it's an art we can all learn.
When It’s OK to Ignore Company PolicyMost company policies have their roots in good practices, but over time, an organization's goals can change so much that a policy does not support those goals any longer. It’s important for employees to be able to use their own judgment and feel comfortable going to supervisors about making exceptions.
Balancing Culture Fit with Diversity: Hiring for SuccessCompany culture is important, but you shouldn't base hiring decisions solely on how well someone seems he'll fit in. This leads to conformity and a fragile organization. To increase diversity, consider people who may not at first appear to be a cultural fit, but who could be valuable additions to your team.
Overcoming the Real Fears behind Behavior-Driven DevelopmentBehavior-driven development can bring many benefits to software delivery. But while many companies focus on customizing frameworks, tools can only achieve as much as the people and organizations behind them. You also have to consider the individual roles and personalities of your developers and testers.
