Shes been at Dropbox since 2014, following work at Google, Goldman Sachs, and other notable institutions.
Appropriately for Dropbox, she likes to keep things simple with her work.
We caught up with Arden to learn a little about how she works.
I started my career as a tech journalist working for PCWorld Magazine.
My evolving interest in people and humanities led me to pursue a career building and impacting teams.
Fast forward a bit.
I joined Dropbox in 2014 after serving as Googles global head of people operations.
What apps, software, or tools cant you live without?
Apps I cant live without include Spotify, Amazon Fire/Prime, NYTimes, and then… nothing.
My approach here is all about simplicity.
I believe in stripping away the distractions and focusing on people and meaningful conversations.
Whats your workspace setup like?
This may not come as a surprise, but my workspace is minimal.
I dont need a ton of monitors around me and am productive with just my laptop.
Whats your best time-saving shortcut or life hack?
My best timesaving hack is to not have a long to-do list.
Ive heard you advocate analyzing data to improve HR organizations.
Tell me how that works.
What sort of data do you draw upon to improve a companys culture?
My approach is not focused on improving HR organizations, its more about improving the organization as a whole.
Its critical to use both qualitative and quantitative data to gather the most comprehensive picture possible.
Whats your favorite to-do list manager?
Previously I used a simple pen and paper, butDropbox Paperhas changed the way I manage my to-dos.
I have lists for each member of my team, and each stakeholder I work with regularly.
Besides your phone and computer, what gadget or tool cant you live without and why?
I could probably live without most things, but Id prefer to not live without music.
Spotify is the best music app.
I also would rather not live without myNew York Times app.
That app is my go-to source for getting the news and staying updated on the go.
What do you listen to while you work?
I always have music on while I work, it helps my thoughts flow smoothly.
Jazz and classical are my go-tos at work, especially John Coltrane.
Though when a new album is released, I will listen to that for a bit.
What are you currently reading?
Im currently readingThe Round Houseby Louise Erdrich.
Also, to feed my music passion, Im readingBruce Springsteens biographyas well.
What everyday thing are you better at than everyone else?
I dont multitask, so I dont get overloaded with incoming information.
Also, I am trying to perfect tacos and guacamole!
How do you recharge?
What do you do to forget about work?
I usually recharge by swimming, doing yoga, reading fiction and hiking.
Most of these are solitary, and require complete presence.
I cant text while I am swimming!
Whats your sleep routine like?
Are you a night owl or early-riser?
Im an early riser5:30am.
I usually get 8 hours of sleep and I fall asleep right away.
Fill in the blank: Id love to see _________ answer these same questions.
Nora Ephron, were she still with us.
Rachel Bloom, Samantha Bee, and Jessi Klein, the head writer of the Amy Schumer show.
Theyre all some of my favorite female comedians, actors and writers.
Whats the best advice youve ever received?
The two pieces of advice I implement regularly are:
Appreciate people, and tell them so.
Coach people based on their strengths and not their weaknesses.
Is there anything else youd like to add that might be interesting to readers and fans?
Ask a lot of questions.
Dont worry about what you dont knowjust find out and ask.
And, be okay saying no when you’re gonna wanna disconnect.
Have someone you want to see featured, or questions you think we should ask?
