Don't become an engineering manager (newsletter.manager.dev)

Article summary

The article discusses the pros and cons of becoming an engineering manager, with the author advising against it due to the current competitive job market and the potential for lower pay. The author argues that the role of an engineering manager is becoming less desirable, with fewer opportunities for growth and less compensation compared to senior or staff engineer positions. The article also touches on the rapid pace of change in the tech industry and the importance of staying hands-on with technology. The author concludes that while being an engineering manager can be a valuable experience, it may not be the best choice for everyone, especially in the current market.

Main themes

• Engineering Management
• Career Development
• Tech Industry Trends
• Job Market Competition
• Compensation and Benefits

What commenters say

• Titles and roles in the tech industry are often arbitrary and can vary greatly between companies, making them less meaningful for career advancement or compensation purposes.
• The value of titles lies in their use for internal comparison and evaluation within a company, rather than as a universal measure of skill or experience.
• Some argue that the tech industry's emphasis on titles and hierarchy can lead to unnecessary complexity and bureaucracy, and that a more flexible and autonomous approach to work may be more effective.
• Others believe that titles and roles are still important for establishing credibility and expertise, particularly in larger companies or more traditional industries.
• The use of titles as a basis for comparison and evaluation can be problematic, as it may lead to exploitation or misrepresentation of an individual's actual skills and experience.
• Some companies are moving away from traditional title-based hierarchies and instead focusing on more flexible and project-based structures, which can allow for more autonomy and creativity.
• The importance of titles and roles can vary depending on the size and type of company, with larger companies often having more formalized hierarchies and smaller companies having more flexible and informal structures.
• Ultimately, the value of a title or role depends on the individual's goals and priorities, and what they hope to achieve in their career.