Engineering Advice You Didn't Ask For S02E07 - How do you become a Manager of Managers?
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Nov 6, 2024 Explore the journey of transitioning to a manager of managers, filled with cautionary tales about authority and technical skills. Discover the balance between overseeing multiple teams and maintaining close connections to the work. Hear practical tips on staying engaged, managing office politics, and improving work-life balance while navigating the complexities of performance issues and promotion calibrations. The discussion also emphasizes coaching and partnership as essential tools for effective management.
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Startup Role Keeps You Close
- Mitra shared she currently is a manager of managers at a startup and enjoys being only one level from the C-suite.
- She stays connected by meeting engineers monthly and joining PRD/RFC meetings to keep technical context.
Focus On Few Areas, Co-Lead With Product
- Mitra recommended focusing on a small number of areas rather than going wide and thin across many teams.
- She advised co-leading with product/design to empower team leads and stay impactful through focused involvement.
A Training Ground For Bigger Roles
- Louie framed the manager-of-managers role as a training ground where many escalations surface.
- He argued exposure to diverse people problems prepares leaders for higher levels like the C-suite.