Arek Bartnik

Go low level, and someone will ask for the Big Picture. Talk Big Picture, and they’ll ask for the details. Talk why, they’ll ask about how. Talk how, they’ll ask for what. Frame the work as experiments, and they’ll ask for concrete solutions. Talk solutions, and they’ll challenge your assumptions.

I think this only works in small doses, because humans have a low tolerance for bullshit. Unless you’re really good at it, jokey and cutesy stuff gets irritating quickly. That’s even worse than just being mechanical, because it’s a waste of time. It’s usually better to cut to the chase.

The sweet spot is right in the middle. Good software is friendly, casual, approachable — but also serious, gracious, and respectful. Just like a pleasant real-life experience you’d have at a local business.