Personal User Manual

Helping Others Understand How You Operate

Operating manuals typically accompany complex or specialized items that require specific instructions for operation, assembly, maintenance, or troubleshooting.

But what about us - complex and unique individuals? Wouldn’t it be nice if each of us had our user manual?

Five years ago, as part of my Future Proof course, I crafted my personal user manual and the points remain relevant today.

When I start a new job, I make it a point to share my user manual with my colleagues. This sharing not only shares with them insights into my working style and communication preference but also offers a glimpse into what I value.

Even if my colleagues don’t delve into my user manual (similar to how many of us overlook our iPhone manuals), it still serves as an invaluable icebreaker.

So, what should one include in their personal user manual?

1. Optimal Work Hours: Are you an early bird or a night owl? Clarifying when you're at your best can help colleagues schedule meetings or allocate tasks more effectively.

2. Work Preferences: Do you thrive with autonomy or prefer frequent check-ins? Communicating how you prefer to work ensures smoother collaboration and avoids misunderstandings.

3. Need for Solitude: When do you prefer to be left alone to focus on tasks without interruptions? Understanding this can prevent unnecessary disruptions and foster a more productive work environment.

4. Preferred Collaboration Tools: Which tools do you find most effective for collaboration? Sharing your preferences for communication platforms, project management tools, or file-sharing systems can streamline teamwork.

Ready to craft your personal user manual?