Management 101

This chapter provides a comprehensive guide to navigating the manager-employee relationship, both from the perspective of an employee and a manager. It emphasizes the importance of understanding expectations, communication, and taking ownership of one's career.

What to Expect from a Good Manager

Regular One-on-Ones (1:1s): These meetings are crucial for building rapport, discussing important matters, and providing a safe space for feedback. They shouldn't just be status updates; they should foster a human connection and allow for open communication about work-related challenges and personal matters affecting work. 🛠️
Constructive Feedback: A good manager provides both positive and negative feedback regularly and promptly. Public praise reinforces positive behavior, while constructive criticism should be delivered privately. Feedback should extend beyond code reviews to presentations, design documents, and other work. 🛠️
Career Guidance and Advocacy: Managers should act as mentors, helping you navigate difficult situations, identify growth opportunities (stretch projects), understand the impact of your work, and advocate for your promotion and professional development. They should also help you access training resources like conferences, workshops, and mentorship programs. 🚀

How to Be a Good Employee (How to Be Managed)

Self-Reflection and Ownership: Take responsibility for your career growth and happiness. Your manager can guide you, but you must define your goals and aspirations. Actively seek out opportunities and communicate your needs and wants clearly. 💡
Proactive Communication: Come prepared to 1:1s with an agenda. Don't be afraid to ask for what you need, whether it's a raise, promotion, new project, or help with a challenging situation. Advocate for yourself and seek feedback actively. 🗣️
Understanding and Empathy: Recognize that your manager is also human, with limitations and imperfections. Provide feedback constructively and be understanding of their constraints. Focus on presenting solutions to problems, not just the problems themselves. Asking for advice is a great way to show respect and build trust. If the relationship consistently feels negative, it may be time to consider a change. ❤️
Choosing Wisely: When considering new job opportunities, factor in the manager's reputation and leadership style. A strong manager can be a valuable asset to your career growth. A strong engineer doesn't automatically translate to a strong manager; look for qualities like mentorship, advocacy, and political savviness. 🤔

Ask the CTO: Aspiring to be a CTO

For aspiring CTOs, the chapter emphasizes the importance of:

Learning the practical aspects of software development beyond coding, including testing, project management, and collaboration.
Seeking out strong mentors who can guide and inspire you.
Building a strong network of peers who can provide support and open doors to future opportunities.
Gaining experience in various areas, including communication, product sense, and technical leadership.
Considering working for companies with a track record of employees founding startups, as this can be a valuable path to becoming a CTO.

🔥 Key Idea:

A successful manager-employee relationship requires proactive communication, mutual respect, and a shared understanding of responsibilities. Taking ownership of your career progression and knowing how to be effectively managed are as crucial as knowing what to expect from a good manager. Effective management is about empowering individuals and teams to succeed.

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📚 Books

The Manager’s Path

Camille Fournier