Ladybug Podcast Your First 90 Days As An Engineering Manager
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Sep 15, 2025 Jump into the essential first 90 days of being an engineering manager! Discover the importance of building trust and understanding team dynamics before making changes. Explore emotional challenges, the balance between empathy and authority, and strategies to navigate early obstacles. Learn about the significance of influence and relationships in leadership. With personal stories and practical insights, this guide aims to support new managers in making a strong start.
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Don't Change Things Immediately
- Avoid rushing to change things as soon as you start a role.
- Observe and learn before making decisions to avoid harmful quick fixes.
Kelly's Transition From IC To EM
- Kelly spent her first 30 days learning and onboarding as an engineer at Spotify.
- She returned from parental leave to a split team and spent the first month meeting people and setting up one-on-ones as an EM.
Emma's Fast-Paced Ramp At Spotify
- Emma described an expedited first 90 days at a smaller company while shutting down her agency.
- She learned quickly and was thrown into more responsibility around day 60.
