The Dos and Don'ts of Engaging with Engineers

Interacting effectively with engineers is crucial for successful collaboration, especially in fields like software development, project management, and engineering. However, what you might not realize is that there are certain questions and approaches that can dampen the positive interactions and even hinder progress. Here are some things you should generally avoid asking engineers, along with tips on how to foster a more productive and respectful environment.

Respecting their Expertise

The key to engaging with engineers is to approach them with respect for their specialized knowledge and the inherent complexity of their work. Engineers often find it frustrating when they are subjected to questions that could easily be answered by a quick search or some basic information gathering. This not only disrupts their workflow but also shows a lack of respect for their professional skills and time.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Beyond the typical pitfalls of asking too much, there are specific questions and behaviors that are particularly problematic:

1. Self-Answerable Questions

Engineers often have access to extensive documentation, spreadsheets, and other resources. Yet, people still ask questions that could be easily answered with a little effort. For example, asking for component specifications when those details are available on a shared drive is not only inefficient but also disrespectful.

2. Inquiries That Reflect Poor Management Decisions

Questions like 'Is your project on schedule?' can be somewhat neutral, especially if the project is being managed according to the agreed timeline. However, if you are the one who made drastic changes to their resource allocation or priorities, only to then ask if they are on track, the engineer might respond negatively. For instance, the engineer might have been overwhelmed with additional work from another project, which was not their fault.

3. Technical Questions with Low Patience

Never ask an engineer a technical question unless you are prepared for a detailed and potentially lengthy response. Some engineers are more verbose than others, but all will need to explain their thought process in detail. If you approach them with the expectation of a brief and surface-level answer, it can lead to frustration on both sides. For example, a sales engineer asking trivial questions over and over again could seriously disrupt the workflow and focus of an engineer.

Positive Interactions

To foster a more positive and productive interaction with engineers, follow these guidelines:

Be prepared: Before asking a technical question, ensure you have done a thorough search and understand the basics. Engineers appreciate when you show that you are invested in the work they do. Be respectful: Treat engineers as experts in their field and show genuine respect for their time and knowledge. Avoid wasteful interruptions that could hinder their progress. Approach with patience: Understanding that technical questions often require detailed explanations, approach them with patience and the willingness to listen.

Conclusion

By avoiding certain types of questions and approaching engineers with respect and patience, you can significantly enhance the productivity and quality of your interactions. Remember, engineers are not just professionals but also individuals who value their time and the opportunity to focus on complex tasks.