A self-assessment for Engineering managers
Here you have a list of questions you can ask yourself to find out whether you are doing a good job as a manager or not.
The original list is not mine, the first time I saw something similar was at Google in the Engineering manager training and since then I've changed and added other things I find important.
I set expectations for my team.
I clearly establish roles and responsibilities.
I hold my team accountable.
I provide meaningful and frequent feedback to each member.
I have tough conversations. Making sure there are no surprises in perf.
I deliver bad news with honesty and integrity.
I create environments that are safe, respectful, and challenging.
I seek out ideas that are different from my own.
I value different opinions. I listen to them with openness.
I am able to identify with others and understand their point of view.
I encourage good behavior.
I am an advocate of values and mission.
I am a culture company champion.
I lead by example.
I make new team members feel welcomed.
I have self-awareness.
I adapt my leadership style based on each unique situation.
I articulate the why behind my decisions.
I make sure I’m not a bottleneck to my team (for example talking with them or not coding in the critical path).
I recognize and celebrate my team’s work.
I encourage my team to push boundaries. (setting them stretch goals..).
I understand that delivery is part of my duties.
I make sure stretch goals are doable.
I prioritize 1:1s with my team and never cancel them.
I involve my team in creating our direction and vision.
I allocate and delegate work equitably.
I make sure my messages are well conveyed.
I make sure my team is informed.