Bryan Carr

Instruction Manual

Almost every new product you buy has an instruction manual. Why doesn't someone issue a similar manual for the people we work with most frequently? In an attempt to bridge the gap, I've constructed a manual of tips for working with me.  Bryan Carr's Instruction Manual:

• I am very adaptable and can work with just about anyone. I prefer working in situations where the goal is clear and easily defined. To that end, I appreciate clear and concise directions and when necessary demonstrations or walkthroughs of tasks (though I do not appreciate being talked down to). 
• I prefer honesty and openness. If you don’t like something I’m doing, tell me right away and directly, face-to-face (or via email).
• I prefer getting as much work done as possible with as little discussion as possible. I am very much a proponent of efficiency in communication and while I value and treasure discourse and debate I prefer to keep such things on a direct path (though I am usually open for a chat if you pass me in the hall or stop by my office, which will generally be open). Having said that, productive discussion is always good.
• I generally prefer email communication so I have a record and a time stamp and can refer back to it. I will probably ask you to send me an email recapitulating our conversation so I can have it for my records and so I can refer back to it.
• At the same time, I will often take a somewhat free-wheeling approach to coming up with solutions to problems and ideas – I enjoy brainstorming, and I never really “turn it off” because I’m always looking for ideas for research and teaching. In addition, I can be very enthusiastic and sometimes rambling in the right situation and given the right topic. If I become too boisterous or overenthusiastic please let me know politely and I will dial it back a shade.
• I am also generally light-hearted and try not to take things too seriously unless the situation warrants taking it seriously. I firmly believe that a good sense of humor is invaluable for survival in everyday life.
• I enjoy a nice lunch.
• I am a big believer in fairness and equality in all aspects of life.
• I value students and greatly enjoy teaching. I’m here because I cannot imagine doing anything else. I work best when surrounded by people with similar values.
• I prize organization and punctuality. I try to be both, even when my desk may seem a little cluttered. I will generally try to be at meetings 10-15 minutes early when possible. I also tend to have a lot of irons in the fire (especially this semester) so if I seem preoccupied at times please don’t take it personally.
• In general, though, I appreciate what everyone brings to the table and will do my best to help where I can and when I can. I won’t ask anyone to change to suit me but I do hope we will all end up working together in a way that plays to our strengths and preferences for everyone’s mutual benefit.

Education

Ph.D. University of Oklahoma