My user manual: Working better together
Our team is made up of various disciplines and we’ve spent a significant amount of time trying to figure out best we can better work together. A user manual is one of those things that can reduce boundaries between team members and increase psychological safety at work. Working from home has given me time to reflect on the way that I like to work. So here goes…
About me
I’ve been in the design industry for the past few years and I’d consider myself an all-rounded designer as I have a multimedia design foundation, an honours degree in UX and experience in service design.
Having spent almost 3 years at a financial institution. My role evolved as the bank became more user-centric. I picked up more complex end to end problems as opposed to small optimisations within a product team.
I am a Service Designer at Essex County Council working to improve public services for residents within Essex. We’re a team that is passionate about being user-centred and solving for those who rarely have the option of going elsewhere.
Conditions I like to work in
- Low volume space
I like a relatively quiet working environment. I love working with music in the background with others close by. - My own space
I like having my own desk space. - Fresh air, lots of light
I don’t function well in hot stuffy spaces.
Times/hours I like to work
- Working hours
I try to start my day by 7 am and finish up at about 4 pm. - Early bird
I am at my best earlier in the day. - Reach out
I don’t mind being contacted at any time but I’ll most likely get back to you around lunchtime.
I don’t mind people booking time in my calendar when I am free. It’s open and accessible to everyone.
Best ways to communicate with me
- Chat
I’m really keen on using teams/slack to communicate. You’re most likely to get a quicker response. - Emails
I try my best to stay on top of my emails but tend to get around to them first thing in the morning or towards the end of the day. - In-person
I prefer talking through problems, ideas or feedback in person so you’re more than welcome to pop over to my desk for a chat or just drop me teams or slack message.
How I best receive feedback
- Face to face
I like receiving feedback in person. - Constructive
I see feedback as an opportunity to learn more about myself and the environment I am in. Giving me specific examples - Timely
If I do something that you don’t agree with, let’s chat about it asap.
Things I need
- Others
I thrive in collaborative spaces. Being able to bounce ideas around keeps me going. - Breaks
A brain break every now and then re-energises me. The opportunity to take a walk and reflect on things is really helpful.
How I learn best
- Listen and discuss
I find it easier to listen, take notes and ask questions. The opportunity to discuss what I’ve learned helps me understand it from many viewpoints. - Visuals
I struggle with large amounts of copy and will often draw to keep track when reading.
Things I struggle with
- Introvert
I’m an introvert so working in the open is something I have to make a conscious effort to do. - Long video calls
Being on video calls debating opinions drains my energy.
Things I love
- People
I am for the team! Organising birthdays, onboarding and goodbyes. - Building relationships
Talking to those around me and learning more about them and what they’re working on
I used Atlassian’s playbook to put my user manual together. There is also this incredible resource Manual of Me.
