Lessons Learned From My Journey as a Software Engineering Manager
I’m thrilled to be sharing some insights from a recent podcast experience
I recently got the chance to reflect on my experience working as a software engineering manager. Today, I want to expand on the three key questions posed to me and hopefully provide some food for thought for others looking to grow and succeed as a tech leader.
Career Advice I Wish I’d Received
The Engineering Manager role has less day-to-day interaction with their peers compared to a software engineer role.
When you are a developer in a team it’s easy to bounce ideas with others and get help when you are stuck. When you are a manager, it’s different, you don’t have many peers to talk to, at least not in your team.
I’ve learned the crucial importance of building a strong support network.
If you want to learn, share your knowledge, bounce ideas or seek guidance, you need to start building a network and use the right tools as early as you can.
For instance, I follow engineering leaders on Twitter: Pat Kua, Valerie Dryden, Meri Williams and many more.
I am also part of a couple of Slack communities (LeadDev, EngManagers) so I can learn from my peers or post questions. It’s also good to attend meetups (though I admit I could be better at that🙈).
You can also be proactive within your company: talk to your peers, join a book club (maybe create one) and get a mentor and/or a mentee. Trust me, there are lots of opportunities out there.
I think surrounding yourself with a supportive network is essential for growth in any career path, but particularly if you are a manager.
A Pivotal Moment in My Career
About ten years ago, I wanted to leave my first job. I felt unsure about applying for a role I really wanted: technical director in a digital agency. I worried about the lack of management experience. I guess the good old impostor syndrome kicked in.
My manager, a great friend, gave me a push. He said, “If you don’t try, you’ll never find out.”
So I listened and applied for a few roles. Even though I had zero experience leading a team. And guess what? I eventually got the job!
This was pivotal for two reasons:
- It showed me that stepping outside your comfort zone is key
- I found that I enjoy managing people
My Strategy for Overcoming Setbacks
With experience, I’ve learned to step back and think before making any decision. So I tackle challenges by taking a step back first.
Clear thinking is key, it’s important to remove emotions from the situation.
Then I assess the problem and the impact. Can I fix it? Can I impact the outcome? If not, I accept it and move on. If there’s a solution, I carefully consider all options before making a decision, seeking advice when needed. And take action
Work-life balance is crucial too. To be sharp and efficient at work you need to be focused. I need to disconnect and recharge. That means hobbies and time with loved ones.
Another important key is to choose your battles. When you are a manager, you constantly deal with problems/challenges. You need to prioritise and make some choices.
These lessons may seem obvious, but experience is frequently the best teacher. I sincerely hope that thinking back on these times benefits you as much as it does me.
Adopt a growth mentality, and identify your turning points. Never stop reframing, refocusing, and reaching out when faced with obstacles.
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