The leap from individual contributor to engineering manager is one of the hardest moves you’ll make in your career.
It’s not just a new title. It’s a fundamentally different job. The habits that made you successful as an engineer don’t always translate—and sometimes they work against you.
Emma and I unpacked this in our latest Ladybug episode. Here are the highlights.
What changes when you move to management
As an IC, your success is shipping code. It’s tactical, measurable, and personal.
As an EM, your success is enabling others to ship. That means your calendar fills with one-on-ones, planning meetings, peer syncs, and leadership updates. You’re judged on how your team delivers—not on your personal commits.
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