Is it just engineering managers or are all managers bad?
So, I have been an engineer for almost 7 years now. Most importantly software engineering. What a lot of people take advantage of is the fact that as a software engineer I need to think creatively and innovatively. Of course, I have never had a manager in my career who I would say was a leader, an inspirer, or somebody I would die to work for if they started a company. I only did it for the paycheck. I am wondering, has anyone had these experiences outside of the engineering field? Another question I have does anyone also notice that managers get a whole heck of a lot of do-overs and cope outs? I noticed in my career, a manager would make a mistake but no one ever remedy the manager or talk to the manager about it, especially managers from above. It seems like once you become a manager, you can do no wrong. Perhaps this is only in engineering, but I would like others to chime in. Thanks.
Lane Perry, compete with yourself to do the best job you can do instead of competing with others. in most large organizations, the amount of time and energy that is squandered in the interdepartmental rivalry is enormous. Worse, a negative, internal focus can cause the company to miss opportunities, the full effect of which may not be realized for months or even years.
My thought is this; Whether you are the head of the department or the newest worker on the staff, you can help your company immeasurably by refusing to become embroiled in internal strife
Actually, Lance, I have managed software engineers at six different companies and while there might be rare opportunities for an innovative step in software creation, I was more interested in results that were effective and within a team development, where everyone understood where the others were thinking. And as you admit you "did it for the paycheck" I, for one, would be glad to be RID of you. It is no surprise that you don't want to work FOR anyone. I hope you can set up your own company that sells directly to end-users.
Hi Lance Perry It's too bad you just did it for a paycheck as you said. What is your passion and would drive you to be the person who would help you become that person you spoke of? I think with any job a manager knows if you are 1- good at your job and 2- fit in well with your team and enjoy what you do and 3- are human and make errors. Why was it that no one ever corrected him or perhaps sat down? I know personally that if I feel upset or something is troubling me at work I can always speak to my boss. No matter what the field you should always feel comfortable enough to do that!
I will say that in all my years of employment I have found more often then not...totally incompetent managers on all levels...And taken note that one's management skills is a direct reflection of their personality...So if ur a jerk as a person...Most likely that will reflect in their management skills....I don't think were born managers....It takes a combination of skills to make a great manager and a whole lot of practice thru much trial and error.....