The Case for (and Against) Manager READMEs
Friend or Foe?
Let's be honest, leading a team can feel like juggling flaming chainsaws while riding a unicycle. You've got your direct reports, your projects, and then there's the whole network of folks you collaborate with – sometimes even manage indirectly. It's enough to make you wish for a communication instruction manual for everyone you interact with.
Enter the concept of the manager README. Now, full disclosure, I used to be firmly in the "against" camp. It smacked of creating a barrier between myself and my team, a formality that clashed with the open, collaborative environment I strive for. It felt kind of...cold.
But here's the thing: while these concerns hold true for direct reports (we should be fostering open communication with one-on-ones and an open-door policy, right?), the equation shifts when considering skip-level communication and colleagues across the organization.
Think of it like this: the term "README" comes from the world of software development. It's that first document you consult to understand a new project, get the ropes on how things work, and find everything you need to get started. A manager README can be the same for folks who collaborate with you – a quick reference guide to understanding your work style, preferred communication channels (email, Slack, carrier pigeons?), and maybe even some lighthearted background info (who knew you used to be a competitive foosball player?). Suddenly, reaching out feels less daunting, fostering a more collaborative spirit across the org.
So, maybe a manager README isn't the enemy after all. Maybe it's a tool for building understanding and streamlining communication. It could be the difference between someone feeling lost in the org chart and feeling empowered to collaborate effectively. It's worth a shot, wouldn't you say?