From Whiteboards to Alleyways
Lessons Learned in London
I just returned from a whirlwind trip to London (which is why this post is coming in later today than normal), and as I unpack (both literally and metaphorically), a few key takeaways have been swirling in my mind. These learnings aren't about groundbreaking product strategies or technical breakthroughs (although there was lots of exciting talk about things during this visit); instead, they're about the simple, yet profound, power of human experiences in a world increasingly mediated by technology.
The Allure of Face-to-Face
As much as technology has made it easier to communicate with people across the globe, there's something undeniably magical about being face-to-face. I spend much of my workday on video calls, in group chats, and collaborating asynchronously in shared documents. While these tools are effective, they can't replace the energy and nuance of in-person interaction.
Traveling to London allowed me to connect with colleagues on a deeper level. Sharing meals, brainstorming at whiteboards, and simply catching up in the hallways created a sense of camaraderie that one can't get in virtual meetings. It reminded me that investing in these relationships, even if it requires going out of your way, can have a powerful, long-lasting impact.
Immersing in Different Work Cultures
Beyond strengthening existing bonds, traveling also exposes you to different work cultures and perspectives. As a product manager, I believe it's an essential skill to be able to adapt your style to effectively collaborate with diverse teams. Immersing myself in the London office, even for a week, provided invaluable insights into how my colleagues across the pond approach their work. These firsthand experiences will undoubtedly make me a more effective collaborator when I'm back home.
For example, I quickly realized that the only-two-hour overlap between London and Mountain View working hours created a distinct rhythm to the workday. Booking meeting rooms during those prime hours was nearly impossible! While this might seem obvious in theory, experiencing it firsthand deepened my sympathy for the scheduling struggles of my London-based colleagues.
The Value of Shared Experiences
Another unexpected delight was the camaraderie of traveling with a group of coworkers. While we each had our own itineraries, we met up for coffees and meals, swapping stories about our adventures created a sense of shared experience that strengthened our bonds. There was a comfort in knowing that you could run into familiar faces walking down the hall at any moment.
It reinforced a simple truth: while loving the work you do is essential, so is enjoying the company of the people you work with.
The Power of First-Hand Experience
London surprised me in unexpected ways. We spent the weekend taking in all the classics - from Big Ben to Buckingham Palace and the Prime Meridian - we even stopped by the pump that stopped the cholera outbreak! But the thing that stuck with me most - the quick realization that Long seems to have a deep, almost reverent, love for halloumi cheese! These experiences served as a nice reminder that there's no substitute for firsthand experience.
Reading about a place or culture can only teach you so much. Immersing yourself in a new environment opens your mind in ways that no book or article can replicate. It's a reminder to embrace opportunities for exploration, both personal and professional, whenever possible.
Documenting the Journey: A Travel Report for the Team
Finally, I'm inspired to adopt a practice I've observed among colleagues who travel frequently: writing a travel report to share with the broader team. It's a way to document key takeaways, share recommendations for future travelers, and facilitate follow-up conversations from meetings squeezed into a busy itinerary.
More importantly, it's an opportunity to reflect on the journey and share the insights gained, both big and small, with those who weren't able to experience it firsthand.