The most frustrating repeated failure in meeting management is unclear accountability for actionable items. A simple – “Joe – you are going to take care of this by Tuesday, right?” is all it takes. A Pro gives every action item both a name and a date. Assuming you read the rules in order, you should…
Rule 20: The more people invited to a meeting, the less likely catastrophe is averted
There is a common misconception that inviting every person involved in a project’s success or failure makes it less likely to become a total fuck up. You will see this a lot with rookie project managers and team leads who think they can cover their ass by inviting everybody. Other times it isn’t so much…
Rule 25: A Pro doesn’t share their personal website with co-workers
The second you give your URL to a co-worker, The Code now extends to that virtual space. So unless you are a self-promoting douchebag running a site about how great your company is, don’t do it. Sadly, this means none of my co-workers should be reading this. Err… Hmm. Uh oh. Editors Note 2/4/24This was…
Rule 24: When asked “How are you doing?” a Pro answers, “Really good”
When asked how you are, you are always “Really good, you?”. Remember – they do not give a fuuuuuuuck. This is a pleasantry. Whether you are really good or about to quit – they only asked because it is one of those things we do and it would be strange not to. Here’s the thing,…
Rule 23: Never send an Email/Text while angry
My best friend used to work at a brokerage house, peddling shit stocks over the phone to stupid people. I remember visiting his office once. The energy was insane. Guys were pacing around with their phones, holding baseball bats, unbuttoning shirts…. As a relatively calm person, I asked my friend what the fuck was going…