You're struggling to connect with software developers. How can you build lasting professional relationships?

1 Understand Devs

To connect with software developers, it's crucial to understand their environment and challenges. Developers often work under tight deadlines and may juggle multiple projects simultaneously. They value clear, concise communication and respect for their time and expertise. By demonstrating your understanding of their workload and the complexity of their tasks, you can build rapport and trust. It's also beneficial to familiarize yourself with basic programming concepts and terminology to facilitate smoother conversations and show that you value their skill set.

3 Share Goals

Aligning on common goals is a powerful way to connect with developers. Discuss how the software design aligns with the broader objectives of the project or company, and how their contributions are vital to success. When developers understand the impact of their work beyond just writing code, they feel more invested in the project's outcome. This shared sense of purpose fosters collaboration and mutual respect, which are the foundations of any strong professional relationship.

4 Offer Support

Offering support to software developers can take many forms, from providing the right tools and resources to ensuring they have a conducive work environment. Acknowledge the importance of uninterrupted 'deep work' time for coding and problem-solving. Be an advocate for their needs, whether that means defending project timelines to allow for quality work or facilitating professional development opportunities. When developers see that you're invested in their well-being and growth, they're more likely to view you as a reliable ally.

5 Value Feedback

Encouraging and valuing feedback from software developers is essential for building lasting relationships. Developers often have unique insights into potential issues or improvements due to their intimate knowledge of the codebase. Create an environment where their opinions are not only heard but actively sought out. This could involve regular check-ins or retrospective meetings where developers can share their thoughts. When you act on their feedback, it reinforces their value to the team and encourages open communication.

6 Celebrate Success

Finally, celebrating successes, both big and small, is important for nurturing a positive relationship with developers. Recognizing achievements like meeting a project milestone or implementing a challenging feature can greatly boost morale. It's not just about acknowledging the end result but also appreciating the hard work and creativity that went into it. Celebrations can be simple gestures like a team lunch or public recognition in a meeting. These moments of appreciation can solidify your bond with developers and contribute to a lasting professional relationship.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?