Working together
How I work
Before we start, it helps to know how we'll work together. These are the things I like to make clear.
How do you fit into a team?
I take time to understand how your team works and the decisions behind the code. I like using the team's existing tools, taking part in code reviews, and talking directly with the people involved.
How do you handle complex or legacy issues?
I start by reproducing the issue and understanding its root cause, including why the existing code behaves as it does. If the root cause is elsewhere in the system, I work with the relevant team to agree where the fix belongs. I keep the change focused and add a regression test that fails before the fix and passes afterward, so we can verify the solution and catch the issue if it returns.
How do you handle blockers?
I flag blockers early and keep moving on work that does not depend on them. If a backend API is not ready, I agree on the API contract with the backend team and use mock data to keep building and testing the mobile app. Once the API is available, I connect it and test the full flow.
How will we see progress?
I follow your team's workflow and project guidelines, whether that's Scrum or another way of working. I keep my tickets up to date in Jira or the tool your team uses, with clear statuses, blockers, and next steps. I break work into small changes you can review and test along the way. For an early-stage MVP without an established process, we agree on a simple rhythm for sharing progress and gathering feedback.
How do you communicate?
I use written updates to share progress and give people time to think. When something needs discussion, I find a focused call useful. I follow the team's communication rhythm and record important decisions in the relevant ticket or the project's established technical documentation, following team guidelines so everyone knows where to find them.
How do you keep the work transparent?
I share estimates with the assumptions behind them and flag risks early. As I learn more, I explain what has changed and how it affects the work. When something needs further investigation, I make that part of the plan.
What about availability?
Before we start, I confirm the time I can commit and the overlap with your team. We agree on a start date, regular check-ins, and response expectations based on the project's needs and my existing commitments.