Elevate Your Leadership: A Guide for Senior Tech Managers
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Chapter 1: Introduction
This guide is designed for senior engineering leaders—CTOs, VPs of Engineering, Technology Directors, Group Engineering Managers, and others—who aspire to be more strategic and purposeful in their roles. If you’re looking to advance your career in engineering management or seeking a new environment where you can contribute meaningfully, this book is tailored for you!
Chapter 2: Commence with Purpose
Whether you're aiming to advance in your engineering management career or are in search of a new setting to make an impact, the first part of this guide is for you. It covers essential topics such as crafting a compelling resume that leads to fruitful interviews and overcoming self-sabotage that hinders your success. The five chapters in this section will provide invaluable insights.
What are you waiting for? Let’s dive in!
- Crafting a Compelling Resume for Senior Tech Leadership
- Showcasing Your Experience and Seniority in Interviews
- Selecting the Right Company for Your Career Goals
- Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Reframing Your Mindset
- The Path to Becoming a Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
Chapter 3: Connection is Key
The word “Connect” resonates deeply with senior tech leaders. It encompasses various forms of connection required in their roles, such as linking strategy to execution, engaging with team members, understanding ground realities, and aligning with one's authentic self.
Ready to forge connections? Let’s get started!
- Planning Your First 90 Days as a Senior Tech Leader
- Cutting Through the Noise to Focus on Key Objectives
- Keeping Track of Projects without Getting Lost in Details
- Implementing Agile Methodologies in Your Organization
- Communicating with Authenticity
- Resetting Your Mind for Enhanced Productivity
Chapter 4: Coaching for Success
Coaching and mentoring are often used interchangeably, but in this context, coaching refers to providing targeted guidance to your direct reports to elevate their performance and accelerate their career trajectories. Effective coaching hinges on understanding the individual needs and motivations of those you are guiding.
How can you coach effectively? Here are some strategies:
- Recognizing Various Types of Engineering Managers
- Empowering Engineering Managers for Greater Success
- Assisting with Career Goal Setting for Engineering Managers
- Addressing Burnout and Overwhelm
- Responding to Common Inquiries from Engineering Managers
Chapter 5: Cultivating an Empowering Environment
Being intentional about fostering a supportive environment is crucial for effective senior tech leadership. The mantra "move fast and break things" is often counterproductive in high-stakes scenarios involving brand reputation, business performance, and employee well-being.
Where do we begin? Let’s focus on our goals.
- Fostering a Learning Culture within Technology Organizations
- Crafting an Innovation Strategy for Tech Companies
- Scaling Technology Organizations Effectively
- Utilizing a Metrics-Driven Approach in Tech Organizations
- Supporting Women in Tech by Promoting an Inclusive Workplace
- Tackling Common Challenges Faced by Women in Tech
Chapter 6: Bonus Insights
I extend my gratitude to Jean Hsu, VP of Engineering at Range, and Joel Beasley from the Modern CTO Podcast for sharing their insights on senior tech leadership. Additionally, I’ve included a list of recommended readings for senior tech leaders because ongoing learning is vital to remain effective in the tech industry.
When is the best time to learn? The answer is now!
Wise Words from Industry Leaders:
- Insights from Jean Hsu, VP of Engineering at Range
- Wisdom from Joel Beasley, Modern CTO
Useful Resources
Chapter 7: Video Insights
The first video, "The Manager's Path by Camille Fournier: 9 Minute Summary," offers a concise overview of essential management principles that can aid senior tech leaders in their journey.
The second video, "The Leaders Guide By Eric Ries | Book Summary & Review," provides valuable insights into effective leadership practices that can enhance your capabilities as a tech leader.