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The Secret to Great Engineering Management: The Art of Intelligent Conversations
Harvard University once made a profound statement:
“The best managers are not the best at everything; they are those who can have intelligent conversations with the best individuals in their respective fields.”
This insight is particularly relevant in engineering management, where the sheer complexity of our work demands more than just technical expertise.
So, what truly makes a good manager?
A great manager isn’t someone who knows everything but someone who can bridge the gap between knowledge domains, facilitate intelligent discussions, and guide teams toward solutions.
Embracing Generalism in a World of Specialists
Technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, with specializations becoming increasingly granular and complex. As an Engineering Manager, the temptation to master everything is strong — but it’s an impossible feat.
Success in this role doesn’t come from outshining specialists but from knowing how to engage with and understand them.
