Operating Manual
Preface
I wrote this manual after reading about the concept of a "Personal User Manual" from an article by Atlassian. Given my neurodivergent nature, I figured it would be a good way to let people know how to best work with me.
I do worry this manual can come across as a bit… pompous and concieted, and considered deleting it with this rework of my website - but I have been assured by friends that it does not.
About
Andrew is a 3X year old generalist software engineer with a broad spectrum of interests including:
- Amateur Radio
- IP Telephony
- Game Development
- Retrocomputing
- Electronic & Mechanical Engineering
- Weightlifting
Andrew also suffers from Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Depression and Generalised Anxiety. This manifests primarily as impaired executive function.
Work Style
Andrew tends to work best independently on individual tasks, but co-operated well as part of a team given that tasks are separated into individual workstreams. Pair programming is seen as a "necessary evil", and is taxing. When in the working office, he is quiet and reserved.
Andrew is very highly driven individual and becomes distressed if he does not feel like he is contributing to the team. Consequently, at the end of the working day Andrew stops thinking about work entirely and switches off.
Unless on-call, he does not take his work home with him - Work is completely separate from his personal life.
Values
Andrew values honesty and integrity over almost all else. He values people who are motivated, professional and friendly.
Individuals who are cocky, condescending or selfish grate very quickly on Andrew. He can still interact with them in the workplace in a professional context, but solely that context.
He requires working from home where he can guarantee a quiet working environment. This is a prescribed Reasonable Adjustment.
Communication
Direct and honest communication are strongly desired. As Andrew suffers from ASD, he struggles to read between the lines, and trying to soften to blow or spare his feelings in communications usually results in him being mislead as to the severity of the topic.
Be completely blunt during conversations, especially with negative feedback, it won't be taken personally.
When using direct messages, please state upfront why you are messaging Andrew so that the context switch is kept to a minimum. Please don't just say "hey".
Things To Avoid
Shouting and loud noises are very quick to get him on the defensive. Due to his ASD, he is very sensitive to sound. He will wear ear plugs or noise-cancelling headphones in loud environments.
Individuals who are overly clingy or eager to be personable with Andrew will be met with suspicion and distrust. This is due to a history of people trying (and succeeding) to take advantage of him.
How To Help
As previously mentioned, Andrew suffers primarily from a lack of executive function. Periodic reminders of tasks to be completed are welcomed, but the biggest thing that is helpful is simply patience and understanding.
Sometimes Andrew can get stuck in a negative feedback loop of feeling bad for being unproductive, which in turn makes him less productive. In these situations, if you can identify them, reassurance and offers of help are greatly welcomed.
History
1992 - Born in the United Kingdom
2013 - Graduated from The University Of Lincoln
2023 - Authored This Document
2025 - Minor revisions and disclaimer