Season 1 - #17 Emilie Schario, Data Analyst, Gitlab Leading in Remote Work

In this episode, we dive deep into the remote work playbook of GitLab with Emilie Schario, Internal Strategy Consultant. Emilie offers an inside look at how GitLab has successfully run an all-remote company, building a culture of asynchronous communication, deep work, and employee autonomy. From virtual meetups to annual in-person gatherings, Emilie explains how GitLab balances the digital with the real to create a thriving, engaged workforce.

What We Cover:

• The Power of Asynchronous Communication: Emilie highlights the importance of moving away from unnecessary meetings and allowing employees the freedom to organize their thoughts before communicating. This approach boosts individual productivity and helps people do more in less time.
• Balancing Personal and Professional Life: GitLab encourages employees to make work fit into their lives—not the other way around. Whether it's a midday beach break or spending time with family, GitLab employees are empowered to take control of their schedules.
• GitLab’s Approach to Culture: Emilie shares how GitLab maintains a strong culture despite being fully remote. With coffee chats, take-a-break calls, and in-person company events, GitLab fosters genuine relationships across 65+ countries.

Episode Highlights:

• 4:30: Emilie discusses how GitLab grew from a small team to over 1,200 members in more than 65 countries.
• 9:00: The impact of asynchronous work: “When you remove office distractions, people can be more effective. It's not about more hours, it's about more focus.”
• 14:00: GitLab’s tools for remote culture: how they use virtual meetups, coffee chats, and annual in-person gatherings to strengthen team bonds.
• 20:00: Tips for managing remote work-life balance: GitLab's "don't ask, just tell" vacation policy and their company-wide "Friends and Family Day."

Chapters:

• 0:00 - Introduction to Emilie and GitLab
• 3:00 - Emilie’s role and GitLab’s remote journey
• 7:30 - GitLab’s modern workplace and remote-first mindset
• 10:45 - The power of asynchronous communication in remote work
• 13:00 - Flexibility and work-life balance for remote employees
• 16:00 - GitLab’s culture: Annual in-person meetups and virtual community building
• 21:30 - Supporting employee well-being during stressful times
• 25:00 - Tips for productivity and managing a remote workday

Takeaway: GitLab has been a leader in all-remote work long before it became mainstream. Their success is based on more than just technology—it’s about empowering employees through asynchronous communication, meaningful relationship-building, and flexible work-life integration. GitLab's approach provides a roadmap for companies navigating the new world of remote work.