Writing a leader About Me

Leaders with About Me documents always gave me pause until a direct report encouraged me to put my own spin on it (check out my about me). I now encourage other leaders to create an About Me to share with direct reports and peers.

I've created a quick questionnaire as a template for an about me.

• Who are you?

  • Who's your supporting cast?
  • Where can we find you outside of the 9-5?
  • What was your path? What's the weirdest job you've ever had?
  • What's your art?
  • What's the day-to-day of your role?

• Principles

  • What's important to you in design? What is good design? What's your favorite design principle or design pet peeve?
  • What's important to you as a leader? How do you define your leadership philosophy or identity?
  • What's important to you as a creative leader?
  • What's your BICEPS letter?

• What can I, the reader, expect?

  • What's the best way to engage you? What are your preferred communication norms? How do you like to receive feedback?
  • What makes a good 1:1?

Sharing the answers to these questions helps others understand your point of view, what you care about, and your whole person inside and outside of work. It can help to set expectations and build connections. An About Me isn't a shortcut to developing deep relationships with others; it's a starting point for future conversations and interactions.

I share my information publicly in interviews so future teammates know a little about me and what to expect, so I've adopted Google Slides. I've also adjusted my About Me often, adding and removing sections as I've grown and developed new perspectives.