Transitioning from Software Engineer to Engineering Manager (A Journey of Paradigm Shift)

IJCOT-book-cover International Journal of Computer & Organization Trends  (IJCOT)          
 
© 2022 by IJCOT Journal
Volume - 12 Issue - 1
Year of Publication : 2022
Authors : Prashant Verma
DOI : 10.14445/22492593/IJCOT-V12I1P303

Citation

MLA Style: Prashant Verma. "Transitioning from Software Engineer to Engineering Manager (A Journey of Paradigm Shift)" International Journal of Computer and Organization Trends, vol. 12, no. 1, Jan-Apr. 2022, pp. 11-14.  Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/22492593/IJCOT-V12I1P303

APA Style: Prashant Verma (2022). Transitioning from Software Engineer to Engineering Manager (A Journey of Paradigm Shift). International Journal of Computer and Organization Trends, 12(1), 11-14. https://doi.org/10.14445/22492593/IJCOT-V12I1P303

Abstract

This paper delves into the journey of a transition from an individual contributor (IC) or a software engineer (SWE) to an engineering manager (EM) in terms of roles, responsibilities, job requirements, and skillsets required. This is a paradigm shift from more technical expertise to management and authoritative responsibilities while managing people and tasks at the workplace. There are many great things about becoming an EM. There are also many obstacles. Yes, an EM can face the same challenges as a manager as an SWE faces being a member. But the general job description is different. EM becomes a mentor and leader of the team [1]. He communicates with stakeholders and top management more often. He must take responsibility for the decisions he makes with his team. He will need to meet deadlines, promote teamwork, facilitate customer service, and achieve the organization's goals. There can be a lot of pressure to do everything perfectly and always well. It can be difficult always to communicate effectively, balance work, manage a team remotely, etc. As a manager and individual participant, it is important to foresee obstacles as setbacks and stepping stones to becoming a better version of yourself. No matter who they are, every person faces different challenges at different positions in their lives. The crux of the study is to emphasize the importance of changing requirements and skillsets while transitioning from the responsibilities of SWE to EM [2]. This work serves as a guide and is beneficial for software engineers, developers, contributors, and those who wish to uplift their career path and transition from individual to managing roles. They want to learn the dynamics of managerial positions while retaining their technical capabilities.

Keywords

Software Engineer, SWE, Engineering Manager, EM, Individual Contributor, Individual Participant, Team Lead, Team Member, Transitioning as Engineering Manager, Decision Maker.

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