High-leverage Activities for Engineering Managers

Every manager has the same number of hours in a day, yet some consistently achieve better results, foster innovation, and cultivate teams that are both happy and highly productive. What sets these managers apart? The secret often lies in their commitment to high-leverage activities. As you navigate the labyrinth of management challenges, always remember that every individual you lead is an investment in the future. By focusing on high-leverage activities, you’re not just leading a team but building an enduring legacy of excellence, collaboration, and innovation. It’s crucial to remember that the true measure of success is not just in the achievements of the leader but in the collective triumphs and growth of their team. <h1>Focus on top performers</h1> Your life and career as a manager will be much more successful if you hire and retain great individuals on your team. It’s not uncommon to see managers with mediocre technical and strategic thinking succeed rapidly through their careers because they were able to hire, inspire, and also keep individuals that are simply amazing at execution. Top performers aren’t just assets; they are catalysts. They not only bring exceptional skills and passion but also elevate the entire team’s performance by setting high standards and mentoring others. Moreover, recognizing and appreciating their efforts is paramount. It not only fosters loyalty but also motivates them to push boundaries and innovate. One common mistake I see is conflating dependency on an individual with top performance: “We need to keep Don because he is the only one who knows how this stuff works.” If you’re in this position, I’m sorry for you. I would encourage you to rapidly find a solution and to also design the right culture and processes in place that prevent you from being in a position of vulnerability. Focus on individuals that can drive impact while they also try to make themselves replaceable, not on those who keep you hostage. <a href="https://betterprogramming.pub/high-leverage-activities-for-engineering-managers-b919bf61f26c">Learn More</a>