Managers Club, Interviews and Resources for Engineering Managers

Learn the secrets to achieving product-market fit from renowned coach Vidya Dinamani, Product Rebels Founder & author of Ground Work, in this exclusive interview with Vidal. Vidya shares invaluable insights on discovering your market needs, validating customers, and creating a winning MVP. You'll get actionable tips on: * Defining your target customer and their underserved needs (09:53) * Prioritizing qualitative research to truly understand your users (29:51) * Avoiding common product manager mistakes like focusing on the wrong metrics (46:23) * Using grassroots tactics to iteratively build what users want (43:28) * Recognizing when you've achieved product-market fit (50:33) This conversation is packed with practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and product leaders. Vidya busts myths about product management and outlines strategies to connect with customers and build products people want. If you want to improve your product management skills, this video is for you! Don't miss the key recommendations and homework challenge at the end to start honing your PM skills today! CHAPTERS: - Introduction and discussion on the concept of product-market fit (01:06) - The role of a product manager and its importance (09:53) - Challenges faced by companies without a product manager and how to overcome them (15:01) - The need for customer-centricity and the power of customer observation (21:21) - The importance of qualitative research versus surveys (29:51) - The myth of product managers being project managers (34:18) - How to prioritize time as an entrepreneur or engineering manager to achieve product-market fit (39:57) - Grassroots strategies, guerrilla tactics, and hacks for success (43:28) - The most common mistakes in product market fit and how to address them (46:23) - Signs and indicators that you are on the right path to product-market fit (50:33) - The effectiveness of MVPs and tips for creating them (53:48) - Developing the skill of coming up with insights and breakthrough ideas (57:24) - Recommended resources for further learning (1:03:19) - Homework challenge for aspiring entrepreneurs and engineering leaders (1:07:00) Vidya's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vdinamani/ Product Rebels: https://productrebels.com/ 📚 Her book "Groundwork: Get Better at Making Better Products" (highly recommended, 5 stars): https://amzn.to/3PC8AE1 ------------------------------------------------------------------- ABOUT ME: I am an author, podcaster, and engineering leader dedicated to inspiring technical managers everywhere. 📚 MY BOOKS: ⭐️ The Software Engineering Manager Interview Guide https://amzn.to/3VIzg8L ⭐️ New! Behavioral Interview Blueprint: A Proven Guide to Ace Your Next Job Interview https://amzn.to/43vuXAn ⭐️ Effective One-on-Ones: A Handbook for Managers: Mastering Productive and Meaningful Meetings for Managerial Success https://amzn.to/3Bwi6So ⭐️ Time Management Tips for Engineering Managers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HM6LSCL ⭐️ How to Write an Engineering Manager Resume, https://vidalgraupera.gumroad.com/l/esbgw 🗣️ Join Managers Club: A Collaborative Discord Community for Engineering Leaders !! https://discord.gg/BdtEbRYxw4 🔗 CONNECT WITH ME: ⭐️ My website: https://www.managersclub.com ⭐️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidalgraupera ⭐️ Twitter: https://twitter.com/vgraupera ⭐️ ManagersClub LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13846374/ ⭐️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@managersclub #management #leadership #productmanagement #productmanager

In this video, we dive into the world of AI and how to effectively accelerate AI in your team. Our special guest, Bhavesh Mehta, an EM at Uber, shares his experiences and insights on leveraging AI technologies. From the potential of AI in transforming organizations to the challenges and opportunities it brings, we explore key learnings and strategies for success. Discover how AI can enhance productivity, change the role of engineering managers, and pave the way for a future of innovation. Join us in this enlightening and thought-provoking discussion on how to become an AI-first organization. Key Points: - Introduction and Approach to Accelerating AI in Teams (00:00:10) - Pivotal Moments and Immense Potential of AI (00:02:10) - Communicating Limitations and Expectations of AI (00:05:20) - Tools and Platforms for Team Productivity (00:09:20) - Evolving Dynamics of Working with Product Managers and Engineers (00:12:30) - Impact and Strategies for Engineering Managers (00:19:40) - Skills and Adaptability in an AI-Powered Ecosystem (00:25:40) - The Future of AI in Software Engineering and Management (00:29:20) - Transforming into an AI-First Organization (00:38:50) Bhavesh's newsletter and contact info: * https://10xmanager.substack.com/ * https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhaveshsmehta/ ------------------------------------------------------------------- ABOUT ME: I'm Vidal, an entrepreneur, author, podcaster, and engineering leader working in the SF Bay Area. I am on a mission to help and inspire engineering leaders everywhere! 📚 MY BOOKS: ⭐️ The Software Engineering Manager Interview Guide https://amzn.to/3VIzg8L ⭐️ New! Behavioral Interview Blueprint: A Proven Guide to Ace Your Next Job Interview https://amzn.to/43vuXAn ⭐️ Effective One-on-Ones: A Handbook for Managers: Mastering Productive and Meaningful Meetings for Managerial Success https://amzn.to/3Bwi6So ⭐️ Time Management Tips for Engineering Managers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HM6LSCL ⭐️ How to Write an Engineering Manager Resume, https://vidalgraupera.gumroad.com/l/esbgw 🗣️ Join Managers Club: A Collaborative Discord Community for Engineering Leaders !! https://discord.gg/BdtEbRYxw4 🔗 CONNECT WITH ME: ⭐️ My website: https://www.managersclub.com ⭐️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidalgraupera ⭐️ Twitter: https://twitter.com/vgraupera ⭐️ ManagersClub LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13846374/ ⭐️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@managersclub #ai #management #leadership #acceleration

Starting a new management role can be daunting. To help new managers thrive, I spoke with Eric Girard, CEO of Girard Training Solutions, who shared his top tips for leadership success. In this practical video, Eric reveals common new manager mistakes and how to avoid them. He explains the importance of setting clear goals, delegating effectively, and transitioning from individual work to leading a team. Additional topics include: - Cultivating empathy and emotional intelligence as a manager - Creating an inclusive environment and seeking diverse perspectives - Finding mentors and coaches to accelerate your growth - Building trust through integrity, transparency, and fulfilling commitments Eric also introduces his new book, "Lead Like a Pro: The Essential Guide for New Managers," packed with actionable advice. Whether you're starting your first management role or looking to level up your skills, this video provides indispensable guidance to help you master the essentials and become a successful, respected leader. Key Points in the Video: (00:00) Introduction to the topic and guest, Eric Girard (01:00) The importance of helping new managers get started (02:40) Common mistakes new managers make and how to avoid them (00:04:00) Setting goals and using goal-setting methodologies (06:20) The art of delegation and its impact on team development (10:00) Transitioning from a technical focus to operating in the realm of people and relationships (13:00) The importance of empathy for new managers (18:00) Advice for underrepresented minorities and women in tech (20:10) The value of mentors and coaches for new managers (25:30) Strategies for finding mentors and coaches (28:00) Building and restoring trust as a manager (32:10) Introduction to Eric's book, "Lead Like a Pro: The Essential Guide for New Managers." (33:50) How to connect with Eric Girard for more insights and resources Key Takeaways: - Transitioning to a management role requires a shift from focusing solely on tasks to getting things done through a team. - Setting clear goals and communicating them effectively is crucial for team alignment and productivity. - New managers should embrace delegation, empowering their team members and creating growth opportunities. - Effective managers cultivate empathy, actively listening to their team members and understanding their unique needs and experiences. - Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to creating a positive and inclusive work environment. Managers should actively seek diverse perspectives and build relationships with people from different backgrounds. - Finding mentors and coaches can accelerate the growth and development of new managers, providing valuable insights and guidance. - Trust is the foundation of successful management. Managers must keep commitments, maintain confidentiality, and act in ways that build and restore trust within their teams. Eric's website and contact info: https://www.girardtrainingsolutions.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericpgirard/ ------------------------------------------------------------------- ABOUT ME: I'm Vidal, an entrepreneur, author, podcaster, and engineering leader working in the SF Bay Area. I am on a mission to help and inspire engineering leaders everywhere! 🔗 CONNECT WITH ME: ⭐️ My website: https://www.managersclub.com ⭐️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidalgraupera ⭐️ Twitter: https://twitter.com/vgraupera ⭐️ ManagersClub LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13846374/ ⭐️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@managersclub

In this video, communication expert Gary Ross shares valuable insights into workplace communication, highlighting common mistakes people make and offering strategies for improvement. Discover the importance of clarity in communication and learn how to check understanding effectively without being repetitive. Gary also discusses the role of nonverbal communication, such as body language, and provides tips for managing up and communicating with senior executives. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your communication skills and become a more effective leader. Subscribe to our channel for more valuable content like this! Key Points: (00:00) - Introduction (00:10): The importance of promising clarity instead of transparency in communication (02:30): The mistake of communicating for the sake of communication without a clear objective (06:00): Strategies for reaching your team effectively, considering their preferred communication channels (09:50): Tips for communicating across cultures and understanding different expectations (11:40): Building relationships with senior executives by treating them like human beings and showing interest in their lives (14:10): The power of storytelling in workplace communication and how to structure a compelling story (17:40): Techniques for checking understanding without sounding repetitive or questioning (19:20): Managing transparency in communication and maintaining confidentiality when necessary (25:30): The impact of nonverbal communication in the workplace and avoiding distractions (29:00): The common mistake of using filler words and strategies for reducing them (31:50): The confidence factor in communication and how filler words can undermine it Gary's website: https://www.insidecomms.com The first 20 Managers Club podcast listeners to use coupon code managersclub20 at INSIDE COMMS Plus will receive 20% off sitewide. Choose one of our 11 courses or grab an All Access Pass good for 13 months…all at 20% off. Simply enter coupon code managersclub20 at checkout. ------------------------------------------------------------------- ABOUT ME: I'm Vidal, an entrepreneur, author, podcaster, and engineering leader working in the SF Bay Area. I am on a mission to help and inspire engineering leaders everywhere! 📚 MY BOOKS: ⭐️ The Software Engineering Manager Interview Guide https://amzn.to/3VIzg8L ⭐️ New! Behavioral Interview Blueprint: A Proven Guide to Ace Your Next Job Interview https://amzn.to/43vuXAn ⭐️ Effective One-on-Ones: A Handbook for Managers: Mastering Productive and Meaningful Meetings for Managerial Success https://amzn.to/3Bwi6So ⭐️ Time Management Tips for Engineering Managers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HM6LSCL ⭐️ How to Write an Engineering Manager Resume, https://vidalgraupera.gumroad.com/l/esbgw 🗣️ Join Managers Club: A Collaborative Discord Community for Engineering Leaders !! https://discord.gg/BdtEbRYxw4 🔗 CONNECT WITH ME: ⭐️ My website: https://www.managersclub.com ⭐️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidalgraupera ⭐️ Twitter: https://twitter.com/vgraupera ⭐️ ManagersClub LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13846374/ ⭐️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@managersclub

Join Vidal and his special guest Jossie Haines, executive coach and former VP of Software Engineering, in this enlightening discussion on work-life balance, or as Jossie prefers to call it, work-life integration. The concept may seem like a contradiction at first. Still, Jossie delves deep into its philosophy and discusses the importance of prioritizing self-care and setting strict boundaries between work and personal life. Jossie shares her experiences and challenges in the tech industry and talks about her transition from an engineering VP to a women's executive coach. She also shares her insights on how inclusivity can improve a company's performance and why creating a culture where everyone's voice is heard is important. Want to learn more about Jossie's journey into coaching and consulting services or her take on work-life balance in the tech industry? Make sure to watch the video till the end. Key Moments and Questions: (01:06) - Jossie explains her philosophy on work-life balance, emphasizing an integrated approach that works for each individual's needs. (02:30) - Jossie discusses setting an example for her team by prioritizing self-care activities, such as Pilates, during her working hours. (03:30) - Jossie talks about the pressures and impacts of Zoom meetings on overall productivity and work-life balance. (05:00) - Jossie recommends strategies for preventing burnout, like listening to your body's signals and caring for your mental health. (06:30) - A discussion on jobs in tech that are naturally good or bad for work-life balance. (10:30) - Jossie shares an insight into her career transition from being an engineering leader to a coach. (13:00) - Talk on the implementation and effectiveness of DEI programs in organizations. (16:30) - Jossie explains the challenges faced by women in engineering and how she helps them through her coaching. (31:00) - Jossie reflects on managing the risk and uncertainty of transitioning from a stable job to a self-employed consultant or coach. (33:30) - Jossie shares her typical day as a coach and consultant, emphasizing the importance of self-care and discipline. (36:00) - Jossie talks about work-life balance regarding the importance of genuine human connection beyond digital platforms, which is critical for mental wellness. (38:55) - Jossie wraps up by discussing the best ways to connect with her. Jossie's LinkedIn Profile, https://www.linkedin.com/in/jossiemann/ ------------------------------------------------------------------- ABOUT ME: I'm Vidal, an entrepreneur, author, podcaster, and engineering leader working in the SF Bay Area. I am on a mission to help and inspire engineering leaders everywhere! 📚 MY BOOKS: ⭐️ The Software Engineering Manager Interview Guide https://amzn.to/3VIzg8L ⭐️ New! Behavioral Interview Blueprint: A Proven Guide to Ace Your Next Job Interview https://amzn.to/43vuXAn ⭐️ Effective One-on-Ones: A Handbook for Managers: Mastering Productive and Meaningful Meetings for Managerial Success https://amzn.to/3Bwi6So ⭐️ Time Management Tips for Engineering Managers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HM6LSCL ⭐️ How to Write an Engineering Manager Resume, https://vidalgraupera.gumroad.com/l/esbgw 🗣️ Join Managers Club: A Collaborative Discord Community for Engineering Leaders !! https://discord.gg/BdtEbRYxw4 🔗 CONNECT WITH ME: ⭐️ My website: https://www.managersclub.com ⭐️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidalgraupera ⭐️ Twitter: https://twitter.com/vgraupera ⭐️ ManagersClub LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13846374/ ⭐️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@managersclub

In this video, Rajesh Janakiraman, an engineering manager at Google, shares his insights and experiences on leading business critical projects while ensuring his team remains motivated and doesn't burn out. Business critical projects can be intense, high visibility deadlines that often shift roadmaps and include executive-level oversight. Building the right team, maintaining communication, and managing expectations around these challenging projects are crucial to preventing burnout and driving results. Join us as we discuss the following: - How Rajesh defines critical business projects - The effects of business-critical projects on a team's motivation and performance - Approaches to foster an environment of healthy competition among team members - The importance of balancing high-intensity projects with periods of rest and recovery - Strategies to protect your team from undue pressure from leadership - Lessons learned from real-life experiences with business-critical projects Learn from Rajesh's expertise in this informative video and find out how to effectively lead your team through the trials and opportunities that come with business-critical projects.

Rajesh's LinkedIn Profile, https://www.linkedin.com/in/aksraj/ ------------------------------------------------------------------- ABOUT ME: I'm Vidal, an entrepreneur, author, podcaster, and engineering leader working in the SF Bay Area. I am on a mission to help and inspire engineering leaders everywhere! 📚 MY BOOKS: ⭐️ The Software Engineering Manager Interview Guide https://amzn.to/3VIzg8L ⭐️ New! Behavioral Interview Blueprint: A Proven Guide to Ace Your Next Job Interview https://amzn.to/43vuXAn ⭐️ Effective One-on-Ones: A Handbook for Managers: Mastering Productive and Meaningful Meetings for Managerial Success https://amzn.to/3Bwi6So ⭐️ Time Management Tips for Engineering Managers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HM6LSCL ⭐️ How to Write an Engineering Manager Resume, https://vidalgraupera.gumroad.com/l/e... 🗣️ Join Managers Club: A Collaborative Discord Community for Engineering Leaders !! https://discord.gg/BdtEbRYxw4 🔗 CONNECT WITH ME: ⭐️ My website: https://www.managersclub.com ⭐️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidalgrau... ⭐️ Twitter: https://twitter.com/vgraupera ⭐️ ManagersClub LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13846... ⭐️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@managersclub

Are you an Engineering Manager curious about gauging your effectiveness and success in your role? In this insightful episode, we dive deep into metrics and stakeholder management with Ivan Bilan, an experienced engineering manager. Discover the core metrics for measuring engineering manager performance in people leadership, product quality, delivery, and self-promotion, and learn the importance of stakeholder management in driving team success. In this video, we will be looking at how to measure success and performance for managers. We'll be exploring different methods and tools that managers can use to measure their own success, as well as the success of their team. Don't miss out on these valuable insights and strategies!

Ivan's LinkedIn profile and GitHub repo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-bilan/

https://github.com/ivan-bilan/The-Engineering-Manager-Pandect ------------------------------------------------------------------- ABOUT ME: I'm Vidal, an author, podcaster, and engineering manager working at LinkedIn in the SF Bay Area. I am on a mission to help and inspire engineering leaders everywhere! MY BOOKS: ⭐️ The Software Engineering Manager Interview Guide https://amzn.to/3VIzg8L ⭐️ Effective One-on-Ones: A Handbook for Managers: Mastering Productive and Meaningful Meetings for Managerial Success https://amzn.to/3Bwi6So ⭐️ Time Management Tips for Engineering Managers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HM6LSCL ⭐️ How to Write an Engineering Manager Resume, https://vidalgraupera.gumroad.com/l/esbgw CONNECT WITH ME: ⭐️ My website: https://www.managersclub.com ⭐️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidalgraupera ⭐️ Twitter: https://twitter.com/vgraupera ⭐️ ManagersClub LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13846374/ ⭐️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@managersclub#management #performance #leadership #leadershipdevelopment

In this engaging conversation, experienced technical recruiter Kate Parton shares vital advice and insider tips for candidates seeking job opportunities in the tech industry. She discusses red flags to watch for, navigating compensation discussions, common misconceptions about the recruiting process, and how to make the most of your partnership with a recruiter. Discover the role of social media and the rise of AI in the hiring process. Kate shares valuable tips and advice on making your job search and interview process smoother and more successful. Tune in for an insider's perspective on the world of recruitment and how to avoid common pitfalls!

Kate's LinkedIn profile and company website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateparton/https://kabrco.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------------- ABOUT ME: I'm Vidal, an author, podcaster, and engineering manager working at LinkedIn in the SF Bay Area. I am on a mission to help and inspire engineering leaders everywhere! MY BOOKS: ⭐️ The Software Engineering Manager Interview Guide https://amzn.to/3VIzg8L ⭐️ Effective One-on-Ones: A Handbook for Managers: Mastering Productive and Meaningful Meetings for Managerial Success https://amzn.to/3Bwi6So ⭐️ Time Management Tips for Engineering Managers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HM6LSCL ⭐️ How to Write an Engineering Manager Resume, https://vidalgraupera.gumroad.com/l/e... CONNECT WITH ME: ⭐️ My website: https://www.managersclub.com ⭐️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidalgrau... ⭐️ Twitter: https://twitter.com/vgraupera ⭐️ ManagersClub LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13846... ⭐️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@managersclub

In this episode, we delve into the world of effective crisis management. Discover valuable insights and strategies for engineering leaders in this interview with Hima Madala, a seasoned engineering manager at Disney with a proven track record of leading teams through crises. Hima shares her experiences and lessons learned from managing up to senior management during a crisis. She emphasizes the significance of transparency, trust, and clear expectations in fostering successful communication and collaboration with senior management during challenging times. We also explore engineering managers' critical role in managing customers and peers during a crisis. Hima discusses the importance of empathy, responsiveness, and transparency in maintaining customer relationships and offers examples of successful customer communication and collaboration during a crisis. In addition, Hima provides valuable insights into managing the team during a crisis. She highlights the essential elements of leadership, trust, and empathy in guiding a team through tough situations and shares examples of effective team communication and collaboration during a crisis. Lastly, we discuss best practices for managing crises, as Hima imparts her knowledge on preparing for, responding to, and recovering from crisis situations. She emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and improvement to prepare for future challenges.

MY BOOKS

• ⭐️ The Software Engineering Manager Interview Guide https://amzn.to/3VIzg8L 
• ⭐️ Time Management Tips for Engineering Managers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HM6LSCL
• ⭐️ How to Write an Engineering Manager Resume, https://vidalgraupera.gumroad.com/l/esbgw   

CONNECT WITH ME

• ⭐️ My website: https://www.managersclub.com  
• ⭐️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidalgraupera
• ⭐️ Twitter: https://twitter.com/vgraupera  
• ⭐️ ManagersClub LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13846374/
• ⭐️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@managersclub