New Beginnings: Finding a Culture That Fits
I have a strong belief in good Government. I believe every company should look toward making the Government better for all American citizens ahead of the company’s bottom line. At the end of the day, we are all American citizens, and we should want what’s best for our country, especially in technology. With that in mind, I set out to find a new position that would allow me to work with Public Sector agencies while also being part of company that shares my vision, values, and beliefs.
I joined Pluribus Digital at the beginning of May. I was nervous about the transition, as it normal when starting a new position. However, in the few weeks I have been with Pluribus, I have found not only a corporate culture that matches my own values, but that everyone I’ve met within the company also shares those values. Beyond that, I found a company that fosters a community within itself.
Within Slack, aside from the business channels where we talk work-related stuff, we also have channels that are dedicated to getting to know our colleagues in a digital environment. I’ve shared cat pictures, talked about movies and TV, talked bitcoin, and recipes. There are channels geared toward learning and a fun channel called Donut that pairs individuals every few weeks to foster relationships with colleagues, one-on-one. All of this is optional, but it has given me the opportunity to get to know my colleagues and have watercooler chatter that’s been missing in my life during the pandemic.
We have meetings still, but there are three things that stand out to me that are different than anywhere else I’ve been. First, in our headquarters meeting, we start every week by taking about 10 minutes to talk about something not-work related. My second day, and first HQ meeting, we talked about our favorite Star Wars character (for me, no one, because I haven’t seen any Star Wars movie). Second, note taking during meetings is shared by everyone. I’ve been in places before where, even though I’m considered part of leadership, I’m often expected to be the note taker because I’m one of the very few females. Third, meetings rarely run the full 30-minutes or 1-hour, giving me time to grab water or take a bio break. At Pluribus, “nurture a calm culture” is inherently part of the culture and value system.
I have been working, too! I’ve had extensive support from my headquarters colleagues, including the CEO and other leadership. I have regular tag ups where we get to know each other and talk business. I’ve found not only a calm culture, but also a comfortable and friendly one where business is based on support for one another. I’ve had the opportunity in the short time I’ve been with Pluribus, to jump into a few projects and prepare myself for some on contract work as well. I’ve been supported, listened to, and appreciated for my prior experience and the value I bring to team and company.
While I’ve just gotten started, I strongly believe I’m with a company that acts as more of a community. I’m with a company that believes good Government is the only way to go. As part of the Digital Services Coalition, Pluribus wants to drive the best digital services for Americans and the incredible men and women who serve as Federal employees. As the incoming President of AFCEA Emerging Leaders, Bethesda chapter, Pluribus supports my community engagement efforts, knowing it will help drive Public Sector to provide effective services to all Americans. While I don’t believe in a “work family” (that’s another blog post in and of itself), I do believe I’ve found a strong work community — one where I can grow and learn and one where I can help grow, support, and build something meaningful for the future!
