I’ve struggled to remember personal details about the people I work with. I’m not sure if that has held me back, but I certainly know my limitations with this. My focus on my responsibilities often overshadows deeper team interactions. I’m working to change this because connecting with colleagues is crucial. It’s a priority for me now. Here’s what I use to keep track of these details

Key Takeaways

• Use a spreadsheet to track key personal details about colleagues.
• Leverage this information to strengthen individual and team connections.
• Balance gathering personal details with respect for privacy.
• Integrate this knowledge into genuine, respectful interactions.

Getting to know your colleagues well can fortify team dynamics. Using a spreadsheet to catalog colleagues’ interests, birthdays, and personal milestones is discreet yet effective. This approach offers a quick reference to foster personal connections, showing your team that you value them beyond their professional contributions. 

Maintaining this information requires a balance between personal interest and respecting privacy. It’s not about data collection but about nurturing relationships through personalized interactions. Use the details to celebrate individuality and encourage team spirit without overstepping.

Remember, the effectiveness of this strategy hinges on your ability to weave this knowledge into genuine interactions. It’s a tool that, when used with care, transforms a leader into a memorable figure in their team’s professional journey.

I started doing this in graduate school and have been using some form of this since then. Here is a template you can use to keep track of details.

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