Trust through transparency
I recognize there may be colleagues in the development process with varying degrees of experience working with design and research. This is why I believe in building trust through a transparent and collaborative process. I identify existing ceremonies (or create new ones) that allow Engineering and Product opportunities to receive progress updates, collaborate with Design, observe user studies, plan milestones and to give feedback.
Balancing Autonomy and Collaboration
As a highly autonomous designer, I am well practiced in identifying what next steps to take in the process. I value collaboration while also recognizing when to move toward execution on wireframes, prototypes, research plans and other deliverables. I build key partnerships with product and engineering, identify shared initiatives, and gain alignment so that we can tackle projects together.
Champion best practices
I regularly advocate for best practices in design and research with emphasis on accessibility and solid design system thinking. I give and take constructive feedback with grace, welcome the perspective of PMs, Engineering, etc. and rely on user data to guide decisions.
As an experienced team member, I feel an obligation to support teammates who are new to tech or transitioning into the industry. When I first got into tech, there was so much I didn’t know and had to figure out on my own. I made a promise to help as many others as I can over the rough patches.
I wanted to become that person that I needed at that time for others. It makes me happy to know that I really helped them in meaningful ways. I make myself available for coffee chats and working sessions to discuss their goals and challenges, offer critique and advice.