From my experience in 10 years working at Tech Startups.
As a Marketing, Growth Strategy or Business Intelligence Analyst, collaborating with developers can sometimes feel lost in confusing meetings, unfamiliar knowledge, and “different languages”, such as discussing topics regarding the campaign and product development, front-end features of user journey or back-end data tracking and storage.
However, one of the most crucial steps to a successful project is by having a healthy working relationship between me (the Business) and Developers (the Executor). As a matter of fact, I have to work better with them and get things done. For years, I’ve been trying to bridge the gap by discovering and learning both soft skills and technical knowledge. Now I’m having a little success collaborating with them more easily. Below are some insights and strategies I’m happy to share.
1. Transparent Communication
- Establish clear channels of communication. Utilize project management tools (Jira), instant messaging apps (MS Teams or Zalo), and check-in meetings to keep everyone informed.
- Provide Developers with an overview of the project’s goals and objectives, what the expected outcome and success metrics are. Help them understand how their work fits into the bigger picture.
- Data-Backed Request/ Decision: Base my requests on concrete data and analytics. Show Developers the numbers and insights that support my ideas.
2. Respect and Give Them Space
- Respect Developers’ expertise and knowledge. Always start with Why and share the outcome I want to see. I don’t try to go into details about how and what to do, unless they ask.
- Avoid making assumptions about their work or the complexity of tasks. Before making a request, I share the general idea and ask them to assess the technical feasibility. They can help me understand potential challenges, resource requirements, and any limitations that might impact my request’s implementation.
- Open dialogue and ask questions when I am unsure about technical aspects. Developers appreciate genuine interest in their field.
3. Stick to the Plan
- Collaboratively create a well-structured project plan with clearly defined milestones and deadlines.
- Regularly update progress and adapt the plan as necessary. Be flexible and open to adjustments based on feedback from Developers.
4. Encourage Innovation
- Hold brainstorming sessions and innovation workshops within Business, Product people and Developers to discuss and propose creative solutions to challenges.
- Cultivate a culture of learning where team members from different backgrounds can share knowledge and insights.
5. Create low-hanging fruits and constructive feedback
- Acknowledge and celebrate small achievements within the project. These can help boost motivation and bring a positive atmosphere.
- Offer constructive feedback, even in situations where a project may not have met its intended goals. Focus on the positive aspects of the work done, highlighting what went well, lessons learned, and identify areas for improvement.
6. Building Relationships
- Organize outings outside of work hours, to strengthen bonds and foster a sense of community.
- Actively listen to Developers’ concerns and feedback, put myself in their shoes to understand the technical challenges they face, and offer support from the Business side when necessary.
7. Try to learn “each other’s language”
- I spent time reading some Developers’ documents to get an overview of the work they are doing, thereby finding “keywords” when communicating.
- I also share business documents, business approaches and problem solving so that both sides are on the same page.
Achieving success when collaborating with Developers hinges on the pillars of effective communication, empathy, and mutual respect. While the dynamics of the relationship between Business and Developers may vary, at its core, it remains a human connection. Regardless of the specifics, there will always be opportunities to bridge gaps and work together effectively, fostering a positive and productive partnership.
