Mastering the Art of Engineering Management: Lessons from Experienced Leaders

Introduction

In this article, we will explore the insights and advice shared by experienced engineering leaders during a meeting. These leaders have successfully navigated the challenges of managing technical teams and have valuable lessons to share. By learning from their strategies, best practices, and lessons learned, you can enhance your own leadership skills and become a more effective engineering manager.

Getting Feedback and Sharing Aspirations

One of the first steps in mastering the art of engineering management is to seek feedback from both your managers and the people you manage. This feedback will help you identify your strengths and areas for growth. Additionally, it is important to share your aspirations with your management and HR. By communicating your goals and aspirations, you can receive guidance on the skills you need to develop in order to advance your career.

"Get feedback from people who manage you, like your manager, and also get feedback from people you manage, peers, and others. The more feedback you can get, the better." - Limor Bergman Gross

Understanding the Role of a Director

To progress to the next level in your career, it is important to understand the role of a director. While the specific responsibilities may vary depending on the company, a director is typically responsible for influencing and negotiating with other teams, thinking strategically, and developing their team. By understanding the expectations and responsibilities of a director, you can better prepare yourself for the next step in your career.

"Think about what a good manager does and what you feel comfortable with. Identify the areas where you feel less comfortable and need to develop." - Limor Bergman Gross

Developing Leadership Skills

As you progress in your career, it is crucial to develop your leadership skills. This involves working on your influencing and negotiating skills, thinking more strategically, and handling uncertainty. Additionally, you should focus on developing your team and helping them grow in their careers. Look for opportunities to exercise leadership, even if they are not explicitly part of your role. Take initiative and make an impact by identifying problems and finding solutions.

"Leadership is not given, it is taken. Look for opportunities to make an impact and show that you have what it takes to create a vision and identify gaps." - Limor Bergman Gross

Balancing Tactical and Strategic Thinking

As an engineering manager, it is important to balance tactical and strategic thinking. While tactical thinking focuses on day-to-day execution and problem-solving, strategic thinking involves looking ahead and planning for the future. To transition to a director role, you need to shift your focus from the day-to-day to more long-term and strategic thinking. This may involve thinking about scalability, architecture, and the future needs of your team.

"Think more strategically rather than tactically. Identify problems before they happen and think about the future needs of your team." - Limor Bergman Gross

Taking Initiative and Making an Impact

To excel as a director, you need to take initiative and make an impact. Don't wait for someone to give you permission or a specific title to start acting like a director. Look for opportunities to bring value, solve problems, and develop your leadership skills. Take on initiatives that align with the company's goals and demonstrate your ability to create a vision and identify gaps.

"Leadership is not given, it is stated. Don't wait for anyone to give you a title. Develop your leadership skills and look for opportunities to make an impact." - Limor Bergman Gross

Conclusion

Mastering the art of engineering management requires continuous learning and development. By seeking feedback, sharing your aspirations, and understanding the role of a director, you can enhance your leadership skills and prepare for the next step in your career. Balancing tactical and strategic thinking, taking initiative, and making an impact are key to becoming an effective engineering manager and progressing to a director role.

"Remember, leadership is not given, it is taken. Take initiative, make an impact, and show that you have what it takes to create a vision and identify gaps." - Limor Bergman Gross