Field notes on managing people

Practical writing on the parts of the job nobody trains you for, drawn from real coaching conversations.

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#new-managers

What Every New Manager Needs to Know About Joining an Existing Team

How to build trust and lead effectively when you inherit a team you don't know yet.

5 min read →
#careers

The Ugly Truth About Your Employability as a Manager

Stay employable by diversifying your skills, staying visible, and keeping both the manager and IC paths open.

6 min read →
#org-design

How to Survive a Reorg as a Middle Manager

Break down silos, own the strategy, plan your communication, and advocate for your team.

4 min read →

Browse by topic

#new-managersYour first year in the job, and deciding to take it

#managing-upWorking with your own manager and leadership

#feedbackFeedback, performance reviews and underperformance

#communication1:1s, meetings, conflict and saying no

#careersGrowing your career, as a manager or an IC

#hiringHiring, onboarding and keeping good people

#org-designReorgs and leading through uncertainty

#remoteLeading remote and hybrid teams

#inclusionBuilding diverse, inclusive teams

What nobody tells you after the promotion

Notes on engineering leadership, drawn from real coaching conversations. Straight to your inbox.