Engineering Advice You Didn't Ask For

The hosts delve into the significance of job titles amidst ongoing layoffs. They explore how titles can influence career trajectories and the ethics of accepting lower titles for higher pay. Discussions reveal the impact of titles on recruiter visibility and the importance of role fit over mere labels. The episode emphasizes the need for aligning experience with job expectations and negotiating compensation wisely. They also share insights on how proximity to decision-makers often matters more than titles themselves in achieving satisfaction and growth.

Explore the intriguing factors of engineering team productivity through a range of essential metrics. Discover how onboarding speed signals effectiveness and the caveats of measuring velocity. The hosts debate the pitfalls of gaming metrics tied to incentives and advocate for focusing on weekly goals over raw velocity. Delve into the importance of cycle time, PR size, and collaboration signals, along with the value of informal recognition in boosting team dynamics. Each metric offers unique insights into improving workflow and team engagement.

Join Louie Bacaj, a former engineering leader turned entrepreneur, as he shares insights on the evolving role of Engineering Managers. Explore the balance between hands-on coding and crucial managerial duties. Louie discusses the risks of micromanagement and the importance of maintaining a technical edge without overshadowing team growth. Discover practical tips for staying sharp, like tackling low-risk tasks and updating architecture diagrams, while fostering open team discussions to drive collaboration!

Season 2 kicks off by diving into the wave of tech layoffs, discussing the shifting landscape of job security. The hosts explore why even high performers are being let go and how layoffs can be handled with empathy. Listeners learn actionable steps for managers, the importance of skill diversification, and how to navigate rerouting their careers post-layoff. Tips for leveraging side projects and focusing on impactful roles shine as vital takeaways. The conversation emphasizes resilience and adaptability in uncertain times.

In this discussion, panelists reveal how to negotiate tech offers beyond just salary. They explore the impact of psychological safety in the workplace and why it matters for growth. A weighted decision matrix is introduced for weighing non-monetary factors like company fit. The benefits and risks of startups versus mature companies are debated, along with cash versus equity considerations. Creative perks, career progression models, and tips on salary conversations are shared, helping listeners to negotiate their best offers confidently.

Louie Bacaj, an engineering leader with experience in both startups and large tech firms, shares his insights on career progression. He discusses his rapid rise at a startup and the impact of saying yes to challenging tasks. Key topics include the importance of context in promotions, the trade-offs of intense work hours, and the risks of moving up too quickly. Louie emphasizes the significance of career momentum and recognizes that personal priorities shape different growth trajectories.

Discover the ever-evolving landscape of technical interviews, shaped significantly by recent changes. Hear personal stories on the highs and lows of interview experiences, from grueling panels to collaborative assessments. Uncover strategies for leveraging interview speed and negotiation tips to maximize your salary expectations. Learn about the importance of maintaining interviewing skills and the balance between fit and specific roles. Plus, get insights on internal mobility and how to navigate salary discussions like a pro!

Wondering why you missed out on that promotion? This discussion dives into how making the right impact can elevate your career. Explore the importance of managing your visibility without overshadowing others. Learn about the role of sponsors in securing promotions and how to identify them. The panel discusses common roadblocks, navigating company culture, and the critical need for manager support. They emphasize the value of aligning efforts with company values and performing at the next level to make promotion a no-brainer.

Marissa Goldberg, founder of Remote Work Prep, dives deep into the challenges and strategies of remote work. She shares insights on avoiding burnout and the importance of setting clear boundaries between home and work. Marissa highlights the value of people-first practices and how they can enhance remote team retention. The conversation also explores async-first leadership, recommending fewer meetings to allow for deep work, and the delicate balance of using video during remote interactions. Finally, she offers innovative strategies to recover from burnout effectively.

The conversation delves into the significance of hiring junior engineers for team dynamics. Experts weigh in on how juniors contribute to mentorship and help avoid echo chambers. They tackle the paradox of job postings that demand experience from candidates just entering the field. There's a debate on the merits of bootcamps versus traditional education paths. The hosts also share valuable insights on onboarding, communication skills, and evaluating company culture to ensure a fruitful start in tech.