Thursday, March 9, 2023

Reflection: Connection

Happy Thursday!

I have been a little absent with my Thursday Thoughts and I sincerely apologize.  It is not surprising that ISO has been on many of our minds and taking over our calendars too. 

Next week, I can’t wait to share with you pictures of George and Martha, our Canadian Geese who have returned (without Bryan / Ryan) and have nested on the island on our pond.  George has become very demanding of late.  Following me in the morning to the food bin and waiting within feet of me until I scoop him some food.  From last year, do you all remember how big George is?  He is HUGE!  But, pictures to come (maybe even a video). 

Reflection:  Connection

I want to thank you for your patience with my calendar.  It had become quite unruly, but I feel it is now settling down and my time is becoming more my own.  

Connection is so critical for us humans.  Especially important in our virtual environment right now at Wells Fargo (and our world).  I wanted to encourage connection and offer ways where you should be connecting!  

Bottom line:  Let’s connect!

1x1s

I encourage you to take the initiative and set up individual meetings – 1x1s - with me or your Tech Lead throughout the month.  This helps us get to know each other but also allows you to showcase the work you are doing and share obstacles that we can assist in breaking down. I suggest starting with monthly, but encourage you to schedule a 1x1 whenever you have an idea to pitch, a challenge you need assistance with, or simply have a question1x1s are open for team members and contractors!  I also encourage you to schedule 1x1s with your manager/team lead to discuss day-to-day work.  I will let the others share their availability, but for me, If you are in India, 6am to 9am Pacific time might be the best time for us to connect.  If you are domestic, eastern/central time zone, float a time/date between 5am – 7am (pacific), and if you are mountain / Pacific, 3pm – 6pm Pacific. 

Daily Stand-Ups and Agile Ceremonies

Participation in the daily stand-ups and agile ceremonies is an excellent way to bond with the team.  Show up, actively engage, and share what your top 3 focus for the week is.  Remember, it is important to use this time to share, connect, and ask for help!   Agile ceremonies are for team members and contractors.

NEW All Hands Meeting

Our monthly all-hands is a way for our entire team to get together, connect, and showcase topics.  Again, show up, actively engage, and be willing to share what you are working on as a larger topic! 

Type

Facilitated By

Duration

Participation Expected?

One x Ones

You!

Up to You

No, but encouraged

Weekly Stand Up

ScrumMaster

Weekly

Yes

All Hands

Me

Monthly

Yes

Performance Review

Me

Quarterly

Yes

Happy Thursday all,

-srt