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Unread 28-08-2015, 13:14
Steven Smith Steven Smith is offline
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FRC #3005 (RoboChargers)
Team Role: Mentor
 
Join Date: Apr 2013
Rookie Year: 2013
Location: Dallas, TX
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Re: FRC team crisis - any suggestions?

Quote:
It is possible that Z's plan is better (perhaps in some ways, but maybe not all) and you should go into conversations with an open mind and be willing to be convinced that your preconceived notions on some issues may be wrong or there are two options, neither of which is 'wrong.' Because if Z comes to the same discussion feeling he just needs to get you to come around to his plan, it won't end well. If you expect him to be willing to change, you need to be willing to change also. Teams change, and they aren't always run the same way year after year. Sometimes change turns out well, some time change turns out to be a learning experience.
"Fit is a funny thing. Many objects can fit together, if they are compliant enough. If you expect two rigid objects to fit, even the most subtle differences will interfere." - Discussion with my boss a few days about about suitability for a new role

Generally in FRC, we already have a lot of similarities to fall back on that help us "fit" together. As a mentor, I recognize that most other mentors are people that are passionate about technology, student education, volunteerism, etc. We might have differences in opinion on the best way to run a team, inspire students, educate students, spend money, etc... but we are more alike than different.

So, I'm not to try to cast you or Coach Z as right or wrong in the matter, but from a practical point of speaking... I echo the sentiments about keeping an open mind regarding the new mentor's priorities while clearly communicating what elements of the schedule/priority change affect your personal enjoyment of the program.

Any of the discussions regarding going over their head, forcing someone out, building a group of people that are in agreement with your direction instead of theirs, etc. are things that are generally considered last resort in a professional setting... and certainly not before at least attempting direct communication with the person. If you go in with an honest attempt to hear Coach Z out and don't feel like your input is heard, or don't get a better explanation for the change in direction, then you can take a different path. Try to have that honest conversation to understand them first.
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