Our PYGIO work is going well. It is intense and the learning is non-stop. The demand is there, but that does not mean we can help everyone. Timing (luck) is a key part of this mission and the other main component is communications.
Part of what we do is receive requests to find specific kinds of programming skills (software developers) and then we try with our partner network to secure the best available talent. That is where timing comes into the equation. If you are looking for a senior Java developer, for example, and at that moment, a super smart guy comes off a project and is available, then that is good timing. The bigger part of our work is about communications. We are acting as a cultural bridge and we are adding a layer of project management on top of each engagement.
On my corporate path for the past 28 years I have learned some fundamental lessons when it comes to communications and ultimately, building trust. To be reliable and consistent is what builds bridges. Keeping your promises is everything. Say what you mean and mean what you say. Managing expectations is our daily modus operandi and when it comes to trying to get two different cultures to fire on all cylinders one has to have a sense of humour and also, one has to confirm and double check everything. Diverse cultures means that things are interpreted differently. Some cultures are confident and talkative and some are reserved and quiet. Attitudes and enthusiasm may be good, but that doesn’t mean that the machine is well oiled. We are trying to be the engine oil, getting the machine to run smoothly, without any wobbles.
Overwhelmingly if a project breaks down, it is not because the work is too difficult, it is because of poor communication.
To get good results on our journey we need to be as proactive as we can. Overwhelmingly if a project breaks down, it is not because the work is too difficult, it is because of poor communication. We have to ensure that assumptions are kept to a minimal and that mistakes are dealt with quickly and gracefully. The nudge is our number one tool and to master the art is to be humble and often quirky.
We are making some mistakes and that’s ok. Being honest about mistakes and taking responsibility is something we don’t joke about. And, it can’t just be the word “sorry”. It is about genuinely reflecting and learning and making sure you don’t make the same mistake again. People will forgive you for an honest mistake. It is what you do next that matters.
Our work and communication are one and the same. We have been referred to as to project managers with a twist. Technical insight is also fundamental and this is where we are learning a fortune. The more we understand the technical aspects the more we help achieve solid results.
Competence is another important word. In my experience in the world, it is not a common thing amongst most people. At PYGIO we have to be on the ball and we have to pay attention to all the details.
Ultimately, we are helping leading companies to develop software, and to do this requires patience, a cool head, and a mastery of communication. This is what we are striving for.
