Sg2009wc:cred

Title How to Build Credibility in the Tech World, not being a Techie

Session: 1-K Bay Area Jan 2009

Convener: Virginie De Bel Air- http://www.linkedin.com/in/virginied

Note Taker: Daniela Barbosa - http://www.linkedin.com/in/danielabarbosa

Attendees:

Patricia Paris
Sharon Minsuk- - schizophrenic bakcground in programing (not up to date technologies) and biology research (not advanced computer science or math physics); how to establish credibility to find a position in software development (either in science or IT generally)
Olivia Sadlowski- - How to build credibility in a technical group without a tech background
Deborah Smead- Program Manager with no technical background. how I built credibility with techical people
Virginie De Bel Air

Notes:

first show what your strengths & values are- (e.g. understanding the user while they understand the code)
- define how you will be working together
volunteer to help them with specific aspects of their role that they might not be 'good at' or like. for example helping them with business/admin things
- share recognition with the team early on, praise

Build Alliances and Allies

become an advocate outside of the the core group for them - interdepartemental/executive
focus on your soft skills value-- what are the people issues to understanding
give them ownership----you need them for specific things identify and give them ownership
Find one person on the team that can be your 'internal' contact and allie- someone you can go to to help you understand things that you might not understand and be able to ask 'offline'

Sometimes it is 'not' personal to you but 'personal' to them as to the attitude they have towards you- try to understand what is going on- stress in their life?personal? family issues? scared that they can't do something ? ask
- Help them ***Sleep Better at Night*** ;-)
- Remain the Calm Pillar when stress situations arise.

we tend to put out there right away what we "lack"- how do you go about being honest but confident of what you can bring to the table?
- Executive sponsership- find it and cherish it- use it to your advantage

Great discussion!