Key takeaways:
- WTF Notebook: Keep a notebook to document all the "wtf" moments when joining a new team, without immediately pointing out issues.
- Understanding the team: After gathering a list of issues, start crossing off items that have good reasons, are being worked on, are not cared about, or are easy to fix.
- Establishing credibility: Ask questions about the remaining issues to understand why they exist and how they can be resolved, building a reputation as a curious and empathetic team member.
- Solving problems: Identify simple problems that have been bothering teammates and work on them together, making the team see you as a problem solver.
- Addressing complex issues: Bring up complex issues with your manager, discuss their concerns, and offer solutions, positioning yourself as a trusted advisor.
The WTF Notebook is a powerful technique for making changes on a team and managing oneself during the process. It involves keeping a notebook to document all the "wtf" moments when joining a new team, without immediately pointing out issues. This approach allows you to understand the team better and avoid being perceived as a complainer.
After gathering a list of issues, start crossing off items that have good reasons, are being worked on, are not cared about, or are easy to fix. This process helps you prioritize the remaining issues and understand the team's dynamics.
To establish credibility, ask questions about the remaining issues to understand why they exist and how they can be resolved. Approach this with curiosity, empathy, patience, and respect for your coworkers' expertise. This reputation will enable you to make changes later.
Identify simple problems that have been bothering teammates for a while and work on them together. This approach makes the team see you as a problem solver, fostering a positive association with your presence.
When addressing complex issues, bring them up with your manager, discuss their concerns, and offer solutions. This positioning helps you become a trusted advisor, leading to a positive reputation and better team performance.
By following the WTF Notebook technique, you can build a reputation as someone who helps the team solve problems and gets things done, ultimately leading to better performance reviews and referrals.
source: Why you need a "WTF Notebook"