Public vs Private Communication

Not everything belongs in public.

Use Public Channels When

• Discussing features affecting the project
• Reporting bugs that others need to know
• Asking technical questions others might benefit from
• Providing feedback relevant to many
• Sharing progress on project work

Use Private Channels When

• Discussing someone's performance
• Sensitive project decisions
• Private mentorship/guidance
• Personal matters
• Conflicts that need resolution

The Public-First Default

Default: Assume public unless reason for private

Advantages:
✓ Transparent decision-making
✓ Others learn from discussions
✓ Creates accountability
✓ No secret handshakes

Disadvantages:
✗ Less privacy
✗ More visibility for mistakes
✗ Can feel intimidating

Handling Public Mistakes

If you mess up publicly:

1. Acknowledge immediately
2. Take responsibility
3. Explain what you'll do differently
4. Move forward

Never:
- Delete evidence
- Blame others
- Get defensive
- Make excuses

Transparency builds trust. Assume public unless there's a good reason not to.