Intentional collaboration: Best practices for more productive meetings

Create a joyful workspace by bringing your whole self and staying true to your core values.

In her journey through the tech landscape over the past 15 years, Jen Wike Huger illustrates how embracing authenticity and core values can transform obstacles into opportunities. Initially grappling with a non-technical background, Jen candidly shares her feelings. Yet, she discovers that her strengths in writing, editing, and community building are just as essential, underscoring the power of diverse perspectives in her daily work.

During her tenure at Red Hat, Jen championed intentional collaboration within her team, shifting from publishing one article daily to three, thanks to a mix of creativity and strategic processes. She emphasizes that as AI and machine learning evolve, we need “people people” who can articulate technology’s human impacts—those who appreciate the importance of empathy in tech.

Intentional collaboration is even more crucial with the shift to remote work. Jen advocates for structured interactions, implementing practices like purposeful agendas and weekly check-ins, all while maintaining a light-hearted approach—using safe words like “jellyfish” to reduce distractions during meetings.

Read more: 8 ways non-technical contributors can add value to a project

Looking ahead, Jen’s philosophy revolves around balancing work with personal fulfillment, guided by what she calls the “joy barometer.” Her message is clear: In an industry fixated on metrics, sustainable success hinges on bringing your authentic self to the table. By prioritizing joy and collaboration, we can illuminate our paths and foster a more inclusive tech community.

4 tips for more productive meetings

• Conduct meetings and 1:1s with purposeful agendas
• Ensure everyone understands their roles, including the host’s
• Hold a weekly “Around the horn” meeting to kick off each week
• Create space for offline discussions to avoid rabbit holes and distractions

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• 8 ways non-technical contributors can add value to a project