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The tech interview gauntlet is brutal - especially for engineering leadership roles. You gotta bring your A-game to nail those brain-busting behavioral questions and showcase steady leadership skills. Studying the right books can make or break your chances. Lucky for you, we've scoured the virtual bookshelves and compiled the ultimate reading list.
Get ready to dive into 8 essential books that'll transform you into an engineering leadership boss. With the right prep material, that dream role is yours for the taking.
The Manager's Path by Camille Fournier
This one's a cult classic among tech leaders - and for good reason. Fournier guides you through the full journey of an engineering management career with crystal-clear advice and hard-won wisdom. Whether you're a first-time manager or a seasoned director, you'll learn to navigate sticky situations like a pro. From managing former peers to earning team trust, this book's got your back.
An Elegant Puzzle: Systems of Engineering Management by Will Larson
Great engineering leaders don't just rely on technical chops - they master the bigger picture too. In this gem, Larson deconstructs the interlocking systems behind high-performing organizations. You'll level your strategic thinking by understanding metrics, culture dynamics, and large-scale changes. Get ready to impress with your holistic chess moves.
Resilient Management by Lara Hogan & Deepa Subramaniam
In an ideal world, businesses run like well-oiled machines. In reality? You'll face obstacles and fires on a daily. This must-read prepares you to stay cool under immense pressure. Hogan and Subramaniam share battle-tested tactics for managing burnout, resolving conflicts, and making tough calls - without shedding your sanity. True resilient leadership material here.
Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter by Liz Wiseman & Greg McKeown
Do you know those magnetic leaders that unleash genius in their teams? That's the "Multiplier" effect this book breaks down. Through research-backed principles, you'll learn how to create an environment of genius engagement. Say goodbye to micro-managing and hello to amping up everyone's smarts.
The First 90 Days by Michael D. Watkins
The opening act as a new leader is make-or-break. Hit the ground running with this acclaimed guide on mastering those crucial first 90 days. Whether you're a first-timer or an industry veteran joining a new team, these time-tested strategies will lead you to early wins and sustainable success.
Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, et. al.
In leadership, nearly every critical situation boils down to one thing: mastering tough conversations. Avoiding difficult topics leads to drama and dysfunction. This book is the blueprint for engaging in candid dialogue about high-stakes issues while staying persuasive, not abrasive. Those negotiation skills alone are worth their weight in gold.
The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier
Great leaders don't just boss people around - they coach them to their fullest potential. This quick read outlines a simple yet powerful coaching framework for unlocking insights, catalyzing growth, and building trust and accountability with team members. Expect to turbocharge your coaching superpowers on every page.
Managing Humans by Michael Lopp
From dealing with under-performers to motivating dynamo employees, this book is like a tactical manual for managing the human side of engineering teams. Lopp shares hard-won nuggets on everything from hiring to meetings to performance reviews. If you want to thrive with people management truly, this one's an absolute must-read.
The path to engineering leadership greatness starts with one step: getting your learn on.
These 8 powerhouse books will equip you with all the skills and mindsets for dominating those interviews and hitting the ground running once you land that dream role. From strategy and resilience to coaching and people management, you'll absorb the best insights from top leadership gurus.
Read up, take notes, and watch your leadership prowess soar to new levels. That coveted job title? It's yours for the taking once you put in the prep work.
