Leading Engaged Teams: From a Former Disengaged Engineer

Finding Purpose

Since 2001, I’ve navigated diverse roles in software development, from web developer to Solutions Architect spanning industries like Government, Law Enforcement, Healthcare, Education, & Energy. While the world of technology is ever-evolving, what I noticed remained constant was the lack of value organizations placed on their employees. My projects were uninspiring, company cultures felt focused on profits over people and there was no sense of team. I ended up moving jobs every few years in search of a meaningful career path. Luckily, through the power of my network (and our love of snowboarding) a call from my friend, Huan Ho, then CTO and founder of Rallyteam, changed my career trajectory forever. Huan mentioned that “three out of four employees are disengaged with work” and Rallyteam was focused on solving the disengagement crisis by using skills and machine learning to match employees with projects they may be passionate about or skills they can lend to another team. I could relate to that feeling of disengagement and joined Rallyteam as engineer #1. During my time in Rallyteam, I learned to appreciate the vision and mission of our product. When Rallyteam was acquired by Workday in 2018, our leader laid out the core values of both teams side by side and it was easy to see how our values aligned and when combined, became even more powerful.

Leading with Heart

Fast forward to 2023, I still love what I do. Leading a team focused on the Workday Skills Cloud has been incredibly satisfying. Our team is making a difference in organizations and helping employees like us find their true passion and achieve their fullest potential. Equally, when I think about helping my teams find their passions, It’s not just about completing tasks and meeting deadlines; it’s about being genuinely curious about my team and understanding what drives them individually. Recognizing the absence of a one-size-fits-all approach in management, this means building meaningful relationships and tailoring career growth based on individual strengths. Emphasizing the “clear is kind” principle enables effective and compassionate feedback, fostering an environment where team members can be their authentic selves. Encouraging a workplace where understanding precedes being understood, I strive to exhibit genuine care for my team, and, perhaps most importantly, have fun along the way, making the work environment enjoyable for everyone.

Nurturing Growth

As a former disengaged software engineer turned leader my focus revolves around fostering growth and development among my team. This commitment takes shape through coaching sessions, flexible work accommodations and fostering a culture that values the mantra “fail fast,”. By emphasizing the learning that comes from acknowledging and overcoming mistakes, we are able to strengthen our collective resilience. Developers are often encouraged to take project swaps to diversify experiences and prevent complacency. Additionally, we view Workday Peakon Employee Voice feedback with our team, fostering open discussions about the opportunities available within Workday for their professional growth.

Navigating my Growth and Leadership

I feel incredibly fortunate to have the support of remarkable leaders at Workday who care about me and my aspirations. Working in the Vancouver office has provided ample opportunities to connect with talented leaders, fostering relationships that broaden my perspective on Workday and inspire new ideas. On a personal level, navigating the challenges of the pandemic was demanding for my family, and Workday has been a pillar of support during these times. Workday shows understanding by offering the flexibility needed to support our families while knowing my colleagues have consistently had my back. The friendships formed at work contribute to a sense of gratitude for a company that genuinely values the health and well-being of its employees. Experiencing such a supportive environment at Workday, I consider it my duty to reciprocate and support my fellow Workmates, making me genuinely proud to be a part of the Workday community.

Workday: Where Everyone Thrives

With over 22 years in the tech industry across various sectors, Workday stands out as an unparalleled workplace. Unlike other large organizations, here, you are genuinely valued as an individual. The supportive, enthusiastic, and passionate atmosphere makes every work day a fulfilling experience. Exposure to different facets of the organization allow you to explore new horizons but also immersing you in a unique company culture. Having worked in tech for many years, I can confidently say that Workday is the only place where I’ve felt a genuine care for individuals, making it an exceptional environment for personal and professional growth. Join us in helping employees like us find their true passion and achieve our fullest potential.

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