Tech Manager—Can We Talk? Being Interactive
Executive Summary: Go Talk to People (but first read the rest of this article)
Interactive is an adjective defined by the Oxford Dictionary in two ways. One way is “Allowing a two-way flow of information between a computer and a computer-user; responding to a user’s input.” The other way is ”(two people or things) influencing each other.” We all want interactive computer interfaces and programs. We want our systems and software to be interactive. We input commands and the system reacts to them by performing a function, returning a value, then waiting for the next command. Non-interactive systems are where humans are not needed. They just run on their own.
Turning to the second definition, human interaction, allows us to go beyond the computerized input and response mechanics to the nuances of conversation and influence. That is what I want to discuss in this article. You—interacting with others. If you are reading this at Autodesk University, then it can be useful in the next few hours or days. If you are reading this at work or home or online, then you can interact with my words by taking them to heart and seeing how you might improve your effectiveness at the next opportunity.
Being Interactive at an Event
Autodesk University is a massive event that brings together thousands of individuals focused on learning, networking, selling, improving, and expanding the industry. It is great… and it is even better the more you interact. Don’t just be an observer. I have been there. I get so much more out of events where I talk to my peers and others.
Vendors – they want to talk to you. The whole reason for vendors attending events is to tell you about their products. They are dying to talk to you. So go talk to them. If you have hesitations, start by watching a demo. Then just sidle up next to another person who is talking to the vendor and listen. Then ask a question. Then ask more. Then go to the next booth and just walk right up to a rep and ask a question. “So what does your product do?” and then let them talk. Listen well and respond. You will gather new insight and knowledge about their specific tools and maybe apply it to your area of oversight.
Industry Leaders – they need to talk to you. They go to these events to talk to you. Don’t be skittish about just walking up to them and asking a question. They want to know what you think about products, features, and upgrades. Be polite and let them know what you wish for, dream of, or want to avoid. The bad and the good. Go talk to them.
AUGI – easiest interactivity ever. AUGI is a group of people just like you. Go to the AUGI booth (wait… if you have a hard copy of this magazine, you did that). Hang around. Stop and talk. They are all using the same programs you use. They are frustrated, just like you. They are dying to hear the next great tip or trick, so share. Get involved. Volunteer.
Younger/Older – move outside of your peer age group. Young folks need to talk to older folks. Mature workers need to pass on knowledge to early career staffers. Advanced career people need a fresh perspective gained from a new user. Look for someone who is “out of your comfort zone” and start a conversation. Sit at a table where you do not know anyone. Introduce yourself and ask where they work, or live, or what software they use, or favorite sports team or whatever… just talk.
Across Industries – don’t just talk to the people who do the same thing you do. You might even want to take a class in another industry or sector. Hearing from those who are not serving the same clientele that you are can uncover some great ideas. I have taken ideas and processes from other industries and pressed them into my workflow with great success.
This Person Needs No Introduction
This may be true for celebrities and sports stars, but not for the rest of us. When you are attending an event, ask someone you know to introduce you to others you have not met yet. They can start the conversation and you can join in. It is tough to go to an event where you know few people. It may help if others are there to assist with introductions. And when you attend an event where you do know most of the people, ask those who are new who they might want to meet, then go introduce them. For newcomers, this takes the edge off of meeting new people. A quick introduction and then it is up to them to take it to the next step, whatever that might be.
An Interactive Workplace
Becoming more interactive at work is key to your impact and growth. Go talk to people on the projects you serve. Talk to managers, VPs, even the CEO (if you can get some time). Talk to accounting staff. Find out what they do and where all the money is hiding (you could use a little more in your budget). Talk to HR and see what technology they may need. Talk to marketing. Listen to what they are selling. What is the product your firm leads with? Design, Process, Quality? You need to know so you can reinforce that message. Go talk to people.
An Interactive Home
Don’t leave out the family. When you get home from work, actually tell your spouse how your day went—before they ask. Tell your kids what you do at work. Share a funny story. Let them know that you enjoy working. Talk about your work ethic. Tell them why it is important to do a good job. Let them know why you love your job.
Interacting is Good
Interacting with others is why we were built. Conversation is a great teacher and refiner. The exchange of ideas and perspectives, lessons learned, successes and failures is all good. It helps us validate assumptions, verify facts, and postulate new ideas. It is sharing those conversations that enriches our lives and careers. So if you are reading this at an event - get out there and talk to people. If it tires you out, then take a break… but after that, go talk to more people.
