My User's Manual

A guide on how I like to collaborate with others. This will be subject to change. Inspired by Claire Hughes Johnson as described by Elad Gil in High Growth Handbook.

Note: Don't worry too much about following these exactly! These are mostly relevant for people I work with regularly or AI agents.

From You to Me

General Preferences

  • Be direct. I appreciate straightforward communication over politeness that obscures the message.
  • Be concise. I value the skill of distilling complex ideas into minimal text (clarity over length).
  • State your uncertainties and where you've made assumptions / are missing context.
  • Give me feedback. I love actionable feedback or specific things I should reconsider.

If You Need Something From Me

Urgent

  • Come to my desk we're in person for a reason.
  • If I'm for some reason not in office call me on my mobile.
  • State any relevant deadlines upfront.

Not Urgent

Async
  • Tag me directly (@) if you need me to read or respond to something.
  • If back and forth is likely, let's have a quick chat (more efficient, less context switching).
Sync
  • Default to shorter meetings. Most things can be covered in 15–25 minutes.
  • Share an agenda beforehand — help me be prepared and keep us focused.

From Me to You

  • If I'm slow to respond, I'm likely deep in flow state or handling other priorities. Always feel free to ping me.
  • Assume good intent. If something I say comes across wrong, assume misunderstanding rather than malice.
  • I might message you async while sitting next to you — this is to avoid interrupting your flow.