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Vulnerability is strength |
I'm not perfect. If I was, I'd be bad at this job! Readily sharing my imperfections, anxiety, and pit stains generates energy and connection.
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Play is essential |
We're all just grown up kids. We still need recess. This is true for everyone, but for creatives it is imperative to unlocking our genius.
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Anti-heroes make great teachers |
It's great to find people you want to emulate. It's even better to find people you don't. Instead of frustration, soak up the free anti-instruction.
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You can build what you didn't inherit |
There's no such thing as a perfect role, team, or company. Don't give up when it's not exactly right. If you care enough, invest in building it yourself.
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Trust your instincts |
Ever just know the right path without being able to articulate why? Trust in your instincts, then reverse engineer what's informing them.
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Just show up |
This is the principle I try to live by as a manager. It seems like a low bar (and common sense), but being present is the key ingredient to magic.
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Culture is as culture does |
Ask forgiveness, not permission, when it's about something as important as how you experience work. Make it what you want.
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There's always a most-human(e) way |
Everything can and should be human-centered. That includes your approach to lay-offs. There is always a most-humane way. Take the time, please.
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Ilyssa K., my direct report at frog
While she is especially keen on identifying the best methods and tools for whatever project is thrown in her direction from the start, she is always tinkering and experimenting with something new. She's never afraid to share when things didn't go well or as expected, and often rallied the team to recap and identify ways to improve something the next time. We all benefitted from Karah's innate hunger for learning, evolving, and growing. |
Omil X., my direct report at Idean
As a manager, Karah consistently created opportunities for growth and pushed me beyond my comfort zone. She recognized my potential and provided me with challenging projects that allowed me to expand my research skills, become a confident presenter, and develop strong leadership abilities. Karah's guidance and support were invaluable in my professional development. |
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Jessica G., my manager and Head of frog DR
Before she has the official people manager role, Karah had already developed mentorship relationships with almost everyone in the studio and many people beyond it. She was fully invested in the success of others and figuring out how to make connections and set people up for the life and career that they wanted. |
Liah Y., a UX research mentee
Karah has been a mentor to me as I transitioned into the world of UX. She listened and went above and beyond to support me in the journey. She provided me invaluable advice, countless check-ins, checked my resume, helped with interview prep but above all was someone who was cheering me on even at times when I felt deflated and the imposter syndrome was creeping in! |