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Managing Managers

Episode 2: From high-growth startup to high-growth Shopify with James Stanier

Sep 12, 2023
James Stanier, Director of Engineering at Shopify and author of Become an Effective Software Manager and Effective Remote Work, discusses the challenges of transitioning to managing other managers in engineering, the importance of defining career paths in startups, the scope and challenges of customer engagement and marketing tools at Shopify, and managing a large group of engineers. They also explore tailoring one-to-one meetings with managers and the challenges of managing a growing team while avoiding redundancy.
51:29

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • Building trust among direct reports through open communication and regular one-on-one meetings fosters a culture of trust and collaboration.
  • Balancing team needs with business objectives requires open communication and making decisions based on what is best for the overall success of the company.

Deep dives

Building Trust and Transparency

As a manager of managers, one of the key responsibilities is to build trust with your direct reports. This involves open and transparent communication, ensuring that there are no surprises and that your team feels supported. Regular one-on-one meetings are crucial for maintaining trust and providing a space for your managers to discuss their progress, challenges, and any concerns they may have. By being transparent about decisions and actively listening to your team, you can foster a culture of trust and collaboration.

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