I am about to start a new job. I have learned a lot of lessons from my old job in the technical, professional and political aspects. The key lesson i learned is that i need to keep my peace of mind at the end of day no matter what. Therefore, here are a few self warnings i have for myself:
1. Start in low key. My boss used to play this role. The current service provider knows it all. The current staff, though not good at her job, has a good relationship with my boss. As a result, i can ask questions but not make comments. I need to solicit their suggestions before i make any recommendation for changes. Most of all, i need to spend a lot of time understanding the whole model myself on top of understanding all the business issues first. That will be time consuming. So, don't jump high at the beginning.
2. Limit networking. No point of blowing your own toot before you win the victory. This company has two years of SD. If I don't clean it up, i fail. Only network once a week and off course in a super low key manner.
3. Work out. I need energy to deal with all the issues.
4. Look beyond your own naval. At my current job, i did a great job and i blew my own toot pursuant to suggestions from all the management books. However, I also learned people don't like it if you blow a little bit too loud. They will find ways to turf it.
5. Always deliver your products.Always help others out.
6. Don't venture into other people's areas before you are an expert in your own area.
7. Build a constructive relationships with your staff. You need to listen to them but you also need a draw a fine line. Set up expectations around product deliverables and results. Never personal.
8. Build a constructive relationship with your service provider. They know your existence takes away some revenues from them. I should make it clear to them that i am looking forward to a win-win situation.
9. Nurture my relationship with my boss and my boss' boss.
10. Be diplomatic with my relationship with my boss' enemies. After all, i need their help to get products delivered. Be nice, kind, gentle but firm on deliverables. Never get too close to them. This profession is so small that you can not afford people to bad mouth you.
11. Be peaceful. At the end of day, there is no way i can be perfect or making everyone happy. Forgive myself and others.