# Erik Reedstrom's Manager Readme

**Software Development Manager at Amazon**

# The README

This document provides a basis upon which a foundation of trust and understanding can be formed. In being transparent I hope to provide insight into what drives me, frames my decisions, and how we can work together to achieve success.

# Personality

Understanding how I think and react to situations will help put context around my actions, responses, and management style. This is hardly comprehensive, but covers some key points.

**I have Attention Deficit Disorder.** I also am a firm believer that it's not a disorder, but rather [a different way of thinking](https://medium.com/@erikreedstrom/growing-up-add-5d34a2f89f6c).

- **Pro** : If one finds me distracted, it's not that I'm ignoring the subject -- I've already begun thinking about it and am likely a few logical steps down the road.
- **Con** : I've likely missed everything said in the interim. I'm gonna end up asking a speaker to repeat and this can be annoying.

**I really like to debate.** This is an aspect of my behavioral profile, [ENTP-A](https://www.16personalities.com/entp-personality). I highly recommend reading through the link provided (including the sections on [Assertive vs Turbulent](https://www.16personalities.com/articles/assertive-debater-entp-a-vs-turbulent-debater-entp-t) and [Strengths and Weaknesses](https://www.16personalities.com/entp-strengths-and-weaknesses)), but here's the **tl;dr** :

- I am honest, often to a fault.
- I'm adaptable, and driven by stressful situations.
- I favor original ideas over, "This is the way it's always been done".
- I'll argue a point equally hard from either side, partly because it gives more insight and context, but also because it's fun.
- I view things from a very logical perspective; my "Achilles’ heel" is understanding emotional expression.

If one finds me questioning a suggestion or position, it's not personal nor a sign of mistrust. This is part of my process for examining problems and challenging assumptions.

**I work hard and often.** This is another aspect of my personality type. I'm driven to find solutions and will often lose myself in work, typically resulting in long hours. I do _not_ expect this of others. How and when someone works is up to the individual; I never gauge by comparison.

# What I'm Here for

My role is to ensure we are successful in achieving our goals, both business oriented and personal. I believe this is primarily achieved through creating an environment in which success is possible. As a manager, I will apply a set of core principles to facilitate this endeavor.

**Base needs are met.** Asking someone to complete a job without the right tools is a non-starter. If there's a compelling need for a piece of equipment, software, or educational material, I will find a way to get it.

**A safe environment is provided.** All team members should feel safe, physically and emotionally. I will do my utmost to establish an environment in which all participants can freely express themselves.

**Accomplishments will be recognized.** When a team member does great work, or has achieved something they are proud of, I will ensure it is recognized publicly -- provided this is desired; not all behavioral types enjoy the publicity. Conversely, I will never admonish someone in an open forum.

**Self-actualization is encouraged.** Successful teams require motivation, and motivation stagnates as we fail to grow. I support any activity that helps us learn and improve, as technicians as well as people.

# What can one Expect?

**Honesty.** I find open and honest communication to be the most successful form of communication. As a result, I will always be as transparent as I can be.

**Fair conflict resolution.** I do not play favorites, and will always be an impartial judge.

**I know I'm not perfect.** I will make mistakes. When I do, point them out. Challenge my assumptions and feel empowered to present alternatives.

**No micro-management.** My goal is not to do others' work. However, I am here to help in anyway I can within the scope of an advisor and mentor.

# My Expectations

**Honesty.** There's never a reason to obfuscate the truth. We're all adults and can approach problems that occur in a rational manner; we'll figure it out.

**Attempt to resolve conflicts.** Many issues tend to stem from simple misunderstandings. If there's an issue, try to resolve it at the lowest level first with a conversation. If there's still no resolution or understanding, we can elevate it.

**To err is human.** Mistakes will be made, and that's OK. Own them, and move on. If we identify a regular issue, we'll work on a solution together.

**Figure it out.** Team members will have a lot of freedom of thought, and be empowered to make decisions. However, with this freedom comes the responsibility to provide the solution.

# Working Together

## **1:1s**

These meetings are not for me. These are for the growth and development of team members. As such, we can have them as often as desired. We may start off weekly or bi-weekly, but will adjust as requested. It's not a status meeting, yet we may discuss work as it relates to the business at large.

My team members are my first priority, and I will ensure 1:1s are held as a top priority.

## Availability

I'm here always. If there's a need, I will be present and available. Depending on how urgent the issue, feel free to call, text, slack, or email me. Need a chunk of my time? Throw something on my calendar.

I tend to work nights and weekends. I may send emails or Slack messages as questions form. _There is no expectation these should be responded to off hours_.