An expectation is a standard that someone else holds for how you will perform or behave in a role. It differs from a responsibility: a responsibility is a task or duty you are accountable for, while an expectation is how others expect you to carry it out. A lead developer may be responsible for passing requirements to developers and also expected to communicate clearly, support the wider project team, mentor others, and lead. section 1.3
Make expectations clear enough to act on:
- At the start of a project, agree on goals, roles, responsibilities, and timelines. Revisit them as priorities change rather than assuming the original agreement still fits. section 7.3.3 section 12.2.3
- Check understanding across roles. Explain unfamiliar technical terms, listen actively, and clarify what each person needs from the conversation. section 1.3 section 7.3.3
- Give project managers realistic timing information and progress updates. A weekly check-in can help them plan without having to chase you for news. section 7.5.3
- In mentoring, agree on goals, desired outcomes, and each person’s commitment early. Give honest feedback so a mentee can improve rather than guessing whether their work meets the standard. section 9.2.1
When a client’s deadline conflicts with their request
Suppose a client asks for additional features on a tight deadline. Don’t dismiss the request or promise what may not be feasible. Listen for the concern behind it, explain the risk to project stability, and propose prioritizing critical features while planning the rest for later phases. Progress reports showing milestones, upcoming tasks, and risks can keep the revised plan visible. section 8.4.2 section 8.4.3
Performance expectations need particular care. Set measurable objectives and standards, discuss progress regularly, and offer support when someone falls short. If problems persist, a Performance Improvement Plan should state the expectations and improvement timeline; document progress and consult HR before considering dismissal. The aim is to give the developer a clear opportunity to improve, not to rely on an unstated standard. section 12.3.3
Expectations can also become unrealistic when you place them on yourself. A lead developer does not need to know everything. Seek feedback, keep learning, and set achievable goals rather than letting that standard feed self-doubt. Whether the expectation comes from a teammate, client, or yourself, name it, test it against the situation, and adjust it openly. section 12.2.3 section 11.5
