Sara Gardinier

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Preferred learning styles

I enjoy reading documentation, watching videos, and having a buddy while I learn something brand new to me.

Communication style

I am a direct communicator who provides both positive and constructive feedback in a way that allows folks to continue to grow and excel. I provide as much context and “why” as possible when communicating changes and updates. (I prefer the same style to receive feedback/information.)

Preferred way to collaborate

I love shared google docs, clear expectations and deadlines, and collaborative feedback. Video calls are also my jam for brainstorming sessions or technical know-how to be disseminated.

How I approach problems

I will do a lot of digging, research, asking questions, and generally being nosey. I want as much information as possible before making a decision about a solution, however, once I am ready to make a decision, I make it quickly and move on to the next issue at hand.

Preferred way to be recognized/appreciated

Celebrate me any way you want. I’m good with public displays (I might cry!) or private praise, however, I do need both positive and constructive feedback to really excel.

Thoughts/feelings/preferences when it comes to asking for help

I love to ask for help! I know when I don’t know something and am unafraid to search out the answer and barring a result, ask for help/pointers in the right direction.

What I find enjoyable at work

Coworkers who are friendly, helpful, and kind.

What kind of work do I find easiest to do when

I find it easiest to do heads-down work in the afternoon. Mornings for me are best for brainstorming, meetings, catching up on slack, emails, and small tasks.

How do I feel about getting messages after/outside of hours that are meant for me to see and respond to during active hours

Totally fine by me. I am very good at setting boundaries and will not respond if it is not convenient for me/a detriment to my mental health.

How folks can best show up for me when I seem off

Give me space to breathe and a shoulder to cry on if I seem upset, please.

Things I am aware of that trigger anxious feelings/feelings of less than at work

I mostly feel anxious when I am new in a group of people who all know each other well. I also feel anxious when I am not given clear direction on a task or process that is new to me.

Technical areas of knowledge

I am not a developer, but I am a quick learner and can get up to speed easily on nearly any technical concept or software product with good documentation and a buddy. In my career I’ve worked with engineers to develop proprietary publishing tools, develop and launch new API-based services, and implement headless CMS products.

Technical areas of interest to learn

Everything! (Can I say everything?)

Current personal project

Knitting sweaters even though it is quickly becoming too hot to wear them.

Something I fear

Heights. Please don’t ask me to get on a ladder and hang that thing with you. I’d rather stay on the ground.

A quote I like

I’m not really a big fan of quotes or platitudes. However, a friend sent me a postcard that says “What can’t you let go?” and it sits front and center in my desk set up as a daily reminder.

How I eat fries

Ideally with every meal. ;) I love fries with ketchup, mayo, ranch, and on salad and sandwiches, the sky is the limit!

My sun, moon, and rising signs

Pisces sun, Taurus moon, Libra rising: I am able to see the link between heterogeneous and diverse elements which do not appear to be related in the least. I can bring about surprising reconciliation, create unexpected bonds, and combine beliefs that seem mutually incompatible which all serve me very well in Product Management!