Top 10 Must-Read Books for Engineering Managers and Leaders

Introduction

In the fast-paced world of technology, Engineering Managers and leaders are often tasked with navigating complex challenges that require both technical expertise and strong leadership skills. In such an environment, continuous learning isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential.

One of the most powerful tools for growth is reading. Books offer a wealth of knowledge, providing insights that can help managers sharpen their skills, broaden their perspectives, and stay ahead of the curve. Whether you’re looking to improve your ability to lead teams, manage projects, or drive innovation, there’s a book out there that can guide you on your journey.

In this post, I’ve curated a list of the top 10 books that every Engineering Manager and leader should read. These aren’t just any books – they’ve been selected for their relevance, practicality, and ability to inspire action. Whether you’re new to management or a seasoned leader, these books will provide you with the tools and insights you need to lead with confidence and make a lasting impact on your teams and your organization. So, let's dive in and build your bookshelf with the following 10 books.

Why Reading Matters for Engineering Managers

In the fast-paced world of technology, Engineering Managers need to stay ahead by continuously expanding their knowledge and honing their leadership skills. Reading is one of the most effective ways to achieve this. By keeping up with the latest trends and ideas through books, managers can make informed decisions, lead their teams more effectively, and stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry. Books also offer valuable insights into leadership and team dynamics, providing practical advice that can be directly applied to real-world situations. Learning from the experiences of seasoned leaders helps managers avoid common pitfalls and adopt strategies that have been proven to work.

Beyond personal growth, reading also sets a strong example for the team. When managers prioritize their own learning, it fosters a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging team members to do the same. In short, reading not only equips Engineering Managers with the tools they need to excel but also inspires their teams to achieve greater success together.

The Top 10 Must-Read Books

Here are the 10 books that are must-read for engineering managers and leaders -

1. The Manager's Path by Camille Fournier

A guide for engineers navigating the tricky path from individual contributor to manager and beyond. The book covers the entire career journey from mentorship to managing managers.

This book is essential for understanding the unique challenges and responsibilities that come with engineering management. It provides practical advice on how to transition smoothly from coding to leading.

2. Radical Candor by Kim Scott

Radical Candor teaches the importance of giving feedback that is both caring and direct, fostering open communication within teams.

Effective feedback is crucial for team growth. This book provides actionable advice on how to communicate with honesty and empathy, essential for building trust and improving team performance.

3. High Output Management by Andrew S. Grove

Written by the former CEO of Intel, this book is a masterclass in management, focusing on the processes and systems that drive high performance in teams.

It offers timeless advice on how to increase productivity and efficiency, making it a must-read for any manager looking to optimize their team’s output.

4. Turn the Ship Around! by L. David Marquet

A former nuclear submarine commander’s story of how he turned around one of the worst-performing ships in the fleet by empowering his crew.

This book challenges traditional leadership models and advocates for a leadership style that empowers team members, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.

5. Managing Humans by Michael Lopp

A collection of essays offering candid advice on the day-to-day realities of managing people in a tech environment.

The book’s practical, often humorous insights into the challenges of managing teams in the tech industry make it a valuable resource for any Engineering Manager.

6. The Mythical Man-Month by Frederick P. Brooks Jr.

A classic book on software engineering that discusses the challenges of managing large projects, including the infamous fallacy of adding manpower to a late project.

The principles in this book remain relevant today, offering timeless wisdom on the complexities of project management.

7. Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink

Explores the science of motivation, revealing what truly drives people to perform at their best.

Understanding what motivates your team is crucial for inspiring them to achieve their full potential. This book provides insights into how to create an environment that fosters intrinsic motivation.

8. The Phoenix Project by Gene Kim, Kevin Behr, and George Spafford

A novel that illustrates the principles of DevOps and its impact on IT and business performance through a compelling story.

It provides a narrative that makes the complex principles of DevOps accessible and relevant, helping managers understand how to implement these practices effectively.

9. An Elegant Puzzle: Systems of Engineering Management by Will Larson

A deep dive into the challenges of engineering management, offering systems thinking approaches to solve them.

The book provides frameworks and strategies that are particularly useful for Engineering Managers dealing with complex, scaling teams.

10. Measure What Matters by John Doerr

Introduces the concept of OKRs (Objectives and Key Results), a framework for setting and achieving goals that drive alignment and performance.

Engineering Managers can use OKRs to set clear, measurable goals that align their teams with the broader objectives of the organization.

How to Integrate Learning from These Books into Your Management Style

Integrating the insights from these books into your management style starts with identifying key lessons that resonate with your current challenges and goals. As you read, take notes on actionable ideas and consider how they align with your team's needs. Begin by applying small, specific changes—like improving your feedback approach using principles from Radical Candor or setting clear objectives with OKRs from Measure What Matters. Encourage open discussions within your team about the concepts you’re exploring, fostering a culture of shared learning. Gradually, as these practices become habitual, you'll see them shape a more effective, cohesive management approach that drives both your team's performance and your growth as a leader.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey to becoming an effective EM and leader is one of continuous learning and growth. The 10 books highlighted in this post offer invaluable insights and practical guidance to help you navigate the complexities of managing teams, driving innovation, and fostering a positive work culture. By integrating the lessons from these books into your daily practices, you can enhance your leadership skills, inspire your team, and ultimately, lead with greater confidence and impact. Remember, the more you invest in your own development, the better equipped you'll be to guide your team to success.