The Everything Feed - All Packet Pushers Pods
TL010: Leading With Influence Rather Than Mandating
Mar 27, 2025
JJ Asghar from IBM, who manages open-source namespaces like GitHub and npm, shares insights on leading without formal authority. He discusses the art of influencing decisions in a corporate atmosphere and emphasizes the importance of tailored communication styles. JJ contrasts structured corporate dynamics with his open-source experience, highlights the challenges of remote mentorship, and shares anecdotes about community dynamics in tech. Expect engaging stories about navigating leadership challenges and building trust in diverse teams.
48:42
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Quick takeaways
- Effective leadership in engineering requires adapting communication styles to resonate with different stakeholders for maximum influence.
- Building a robust network within an organization enhances one's influence while promoting collaboration and innovation across departments.
Deep dives
Leading with Influence in Engineering
Driving influence in engineering roles, particularly as an individual contributor, requires adapting communication styles to different stakeholders. For example, engaging with C-suite executives necessitates a more strategic viewpoint, while discussions with junior engineers focus on mentorship and guidance. JJ emphasizes the importance of building relationships and trust, suggesting that every interaction is an opportunity to inspire and lead without authority. By framing conversations to resonate with the audience, leaders can foster a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and problem-solving.
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