Congratulations on your new role as an Engineering Manager (EM)! You've worked hard to reach this point, building a solid foundation as a successful engineer, likely serving as a senior engineer or team lead. However, transitioning to management brings a different set of responsibilities. Instead of coding directly, you’ll now guide your team to create high-quality tech products and systems.
1. Acknowledge Your New Role
Regardless of how you became an EM—whether promoted from within or hired externally—it's essential to recognize that you are new to this role. If you’ve been with the company for years, it might be tempting to think you already know your team and their projects. However, as a manager, you need to "re-meet" everyone.
Imagine moving from the 1st floor to the 40th in a familiar building; your perspective changes completely. Take the time to understand your team from this new viewpoint.
2. Make Connections Early On
If you're new to the company, prioritize meeting your team members. Share your background and explain your work style, including:
- Your communication preferences
- Your approach to meetings
- Best ways to contact you
- Protocols for asynchronous communication
Make sure to frame this information positively, emphasizing how it can help them work effectively with you. If comfortable, share something personal to foster trust and rapport.
If you’re promoted from within, you likely know your team already. However, your role has changed, so it’s important to communicate how your responsibilities differ now that you’re a manager.
3. Get to Know Your Team
In your first weeks, focus on learning about your team members. Think of this like a job interview, where you gather insights about their experiences and preferences. Ask questions like:
- How do you feel about your current projects?
- What tasks do you enjoy or dislike?
- Why were you assigned to this project?
This information will help you understand their perspectives and identify areas for improvement. While it’s important to build rapport, steer clear of sensitive topics like politics or religion early on to maintain a professional atmosphere.
4. Initiate One-on-Ones
Once you’ve established initial connections, set up regular one-on-one meetings with your team. These sessions are vital for:
- Understanding what everyone is working on
- Learning about any challenges they face
- Building trust and rapport
Although some managers may dread one-on-ones, they are crucial for fostering relationships. Think of it like exercising: it may feel tough at first, but it gets easier and more rewarding over time.
5. Maintain Professional Boundaries
As you build relationships, find the right balance between being friendly and maintaining professionalism. Think of yourself as a doctor—knowledgeable and supportive, but not a peer. In your one-on-ones, focus on identifying challenges and suggesting solutions rather than trying to be overly familiar.
Conclusion
As an EM, your team is your primary focus. Use your initial weeks to lay the groundwork for strong relationships, which will facilitate smoother collaboration. Here’s a quick recap:
- Reintroduce Yourself: Share your communication style and how team members can reach you.
- Learn About Your Team: Understand their work experiences, preferences, and challenges.
- Start One-on-Ones: Regular meetings will help deepen your understanding and trust.
- Balance Personal and Professional: Establish clear boundaries to maintain a healthy work environment.
By following these steps, you'll set yourself up for success in your new role. Take your time to implement these strategies, develop a tailored plan, and move forward confidently.
