Secure An Agile Job By Not Focusing On Agile

In a recent conversation with a tech founder, I was commended for my work, but an interesting recommendation came my way. "Steph, great work, but can I make a recommendation? If you want to help companies, I recommend not using the words Agile or Scrum. They have a negative connotation now. Agile and Scrum slow the process down. Nobody wants it."

This conversation sparked a crucial reflection: Is the perception surrounding agile and scrum right or wrong? However, rather than getting bogged down in this debate, the focus shifted to a more critical question - how can one truly add value and secure opportunities in the tech industry?

Here are some key takeaways from this insightful dialogue:

1. Reframe the Conversation

Whether the perception of Agile and Scrum is accurate or not becomes secondary to the more pressing issue at hand. The essence of Agile and Scrum isn't about slowing processes down; it's about eliminating waste, fostering continuous improvement, and delivering value to customers swiftly.

To add value, one must shift the narrative. Instead of fixating on methodologies, focus on the underlying problem a company faces and how you can contribute to solving it. In the case of the founder mentioned earlier, the need was for a process that facilitates quick responses to change without becoming burdensome.

2. Emphasize Value Propositions

Talk less about the methodologies and more about the value you bring to the table. Companies are interested in tangible results and solutions, not just theoretical frameworks. In the context of the founder's concerns, the emphasis should be on how to enable the business to respond rapidly to changes without compromising efficiency.

Demonstrate your understanding of the business landscape and showcase how your approach will enhance the company's ability to adapt and deliver value swiftly.

3. Listen and Understand

To truly make an impact, active listening is key. Rather than pushing a particular methodology, take the time to understand the unique challenges and objectives of the company. In the case of the founder, it was crucial to acknowledge the delicate balance between having no process (leading to chaos) and being overly process-oriented (hindering competitiveness).

By empathetically listening to the problems at hand, you position yourself as a problem solver rather than a methodology advocate.

In conclusion, the real value lies not in the rigid adherence to a particular framework but in the ability to understand, adapt, and provide tailored solutions to a company's challenges. Whether you're an employee, contractor, or part of a consulting firm, focusing on the core issues, emphasizing value propositions, and actively listening are the keys to making a meaningful impact in the tech industry.

Shout Out: Special shout out to my friend Chris Williams. This article was inspired by conversations with him along with his recent podcast episode "Why Nobody Wants Your Agile." Check it out here: https://badassagile.com/2023/09/18/episode-241-why-nobody-wants-your-agile/