Learning to Lead: Recommended Resources for New Managers
Stepping into a management role for the first time is both exciting and challenging.
As you transition from an individual contributor to a leader, you'll encounter new responsibilities requiring different skills. Fortunately, a wealth of resources are available to help you navigate this journey. This article will explore some of the most valuable books, courses, and communities that support your development as a new manager.
Books
1. The Manager's Path by Camille Fournier
Camille Fournier's The Manager's Path is a must-read for anyone moving into a management role within the tech industry. Drawing from her extensive experience, Fournier provides practical guidance on navigating the complexities of engineering leadership at all levels.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding the transition from engineer to manager.
Strategies for effective communication and delegation.
Insights into mentoring, managing managers, and scaling teams.
2. An Elegant Puzzle: Systems of Engineering Management by Will Larson
Will Larson combines systems thinking with practical advice in An Elegant Puzzle. The book addresses the challenges of scaling engineering organizations, balancing team autonomy with alignment, and managing technical debt.
Key Takeaways:
Building and scaling effective engineering teams.
Implementing processes that enhance productivity without stifling creativity.
Techniques for thoughtful organizational design.
3. High Output Management by Andrew S. Grove
Written by the former CEO of Intel, this classic book offers timeless insights into management and leadership. Grove discusses the importance of managerial leverage and how to maximize the output of teams.
Key Takeaways:
Effective time management and prioritization.
The role of meetings and decision-making processes.
Performance evaluation and feedback mechanisms.
4. Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott
Kim Scott introduces the concept of Radical Candor—a management philosophy centred on caring personally while challenging directly. The book provides a framework for giving feedback and building strong professional relationships.
Key Takeaways:
Creating a culture of open communication.
Techniques for delivering and receiving feedback.
Building trust and fostering a collaborative environment.
5. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni
Through a compelling fable, Lencioni reveals teams' common pitfalls and offers actionable strategies to overcome them. This book is essential for understanding team dynamics and building cohesive teams.
Key Takeaways:
Identifying and addressing dysfunctions such as lack of trust and fear of conflict.
Enhancing team performance through accountability and commitment.
Practical exercises to strengthen team cohesion.
Courses
1. Coursera: Leading People and Teams Specialization
Offered by the University of Michigan, this specialization covers essential leadership skills, including motivating employees, managing talent, and leading teams.
Highlights:
Video lectures and interactive quizzes.
Real-world case studies and peer-reviewed assignments.
Flexible scheduling suitable for working professionals.
2. edX: Engineering Management Courses
Platforms like edX offer courses tailored to engineering management, such as "Engineering Project Management" by Rice University.
Highlights:
Focus on project management principles within engineering contexts.
Techniques for managing technical teams and resources.
Option to earn verified certificates upon completion.
3. LinkedIn Learning: New Manager Foundations
LinkedIn Learning provides a "New Manager Foundations" course that helps you develop a management mindset and build critical leadership skills.
Highlights:
Short, digestible video lessons.
Practical exercises and assessments.
Access to a community of professionals for networking.
4. Harvard ManageMentor
An online resource offering modules on various management topics, including leadership, team management, and strategy, developed by Harvard Business Publishing.
Highlights:
Expert insights from industry leaders and academics.
Interactive learning experiences with real-world scenarios.
Tools and templates for immediate application.
5. Udemy: Management Skills Courses
Udemy offers a range of courses like "Management Skills - Team Leadership Skills Masterclass," suitable for new and aspiring managers.
Highlights:
Affordable and often discounted pricing.
Lifetime access to course materials and updates.
User ratings and reviews will guide your selection.
Communities and Networking
1. Manager Tools
An award-winning podcast and online community offering practical management and career development guidance.
Benefits:
Access to forums with experienced managers.
Weekly podcasts covering a wide range of management topics.
Conferences and training sessions for deeper learning.
2. r/ExperiencedManagers on Reddit
A subreddit dedicated to sharing experiences, advice, and resources among managers at all levels.
Benefits:
Anonymous platform for candid discussions.
Diverse perspectives from various industries.
Opportunity to ask questions and receive community feedback.
3. LinkedIn Groups: Leadership and Management
Groups like "Leadership Think Tank" and "Harvard Business Review Discussion Group" provide platforms to connect with other professionals.
Benefits:
Networking opportunities with global professionals.
Access to articles, webinars, and discussions on management.
Ability to share your insights and learn from others.
4. Slack Communities: LeadDev Slack
Communities such as LeadDev offer Slack channels focused on different aspects of engineering leadership.
Benefits:
Real-time discussions and Q&A sessions.
Channels dedicated to specific topics like diversity, inclusion, and remote management.
Networking with peers in similar roles.
5. Professional Associations: IEEE Engineering Management Society
Organizations like the IEEE Engineering Management Society offer resources and events tailored to engineering managers.
Benefits:
Access to exclusive content, journals, and webinars.
Local chapter events, workshops, and conferences.
Opportunities for leadership roles within the organization.
Podcasts and Blogs
1. Engineering Leadership Podcast
It focuses on the challenges and successes in engineering management and features interviews with industry leaders.
2. Harvard Business Review Ideacast
Offers insights on the latest trends in business and management from Harvard Business School faculty and industry experts.
3. LeadDev Blog
Provides articles on engineering leadership, culture, and best practices written by experienced professionals.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning into a management role is a significant step that requires continuous learning and adaptation. By leveraging these resources, you can build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills to lead your team effectively.
Remember, leadership is a journey, not a destination. Engaging with communities, seeking mentorship, and staying curious will enhance your abilities and positively impact those you lead.
Do you have other resources that have helped you in your management journey? Please share them in the comments below! Let's build a supportive community together.
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