Managing Designers
My Management Tenets
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Give direct reports enough of a challenge, while protecting them against overscheduling or boredom
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Listen to them; find out what their goals are, and what issues are currently coming up at work
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Strengthen your team through clear, shared goals, and build trust
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Organizational change happens slowly, usually; build it up over time
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Build up others, while staying relatively humble yourself
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Delegate within the (stretch) capabilities of the team; don't automatically assume you're the only one who can do the task
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Invest in your direct reports
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Show gratitude!
Testimonials
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I had the privilege of working closely with Phil for almost 1.5 years. I was a new employee and he was very supportive and patient as I got up to speed on the company and client inner workings. As a User Experience Manager, Phil's kind managing style created a supportive environment, where he excelled as an attentive listener, translating feedback into actionable insights. Phil's dual role as a User Experience Designer enriched our projects, and his approachability and collaborative nature made him easy to work with. I highly recommend Phil for any role where a blend of managerial prowess, UX design expertise, wealth of knowledge, and compassionate leadership is valued; he's an asset to any organization.” - Direct Report
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I was lucky enough to work with Phil on a fast paced, high profile project. Phil is a leader. When the stakes are high, he can be trusted. To have the big ideas, and make the tough decisions. And to keep everyone level-headed.
Phil is a thoughtful UX designer and always puts the user first. He is smart, seasoned and multi-talented. A jack of all trades, Phil uses his experience and knowledge of different disciplines to strengthen his UX thinking.
He is a team player - patient and supportive, collaborative and kind. Phil brings a calming presence to a team. He was an incredible asset - always available to help the team workshop through a problem, sift through convoluted feedback or educate on the best practice solution.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time working with Phil and would love the opportunity to partner with him again... I should also mention - he makes a mean French Press.” - Executive Producer