Hi 👋, I'm Maciej. I've been working as a developer for 6 years and got promoted to Technical Leader at the beginning of this year. Here are my thoughts on the transition and journey in 2022. 🚀

As a senior backend engineer, I was used to working on single tasks and being able to focus on the technical aspects of my job. However, when I was promoted to technical leader, I found that my role was much more multifaceted and required a different set of skills.

Challenges

One of the biggest challenges I faced was learning how to effectively manage and mentor a team. I had to shift my mindset from being an individual contributor to being a leader and coach for others. This required me to be more conscious of my communication and feedback, as well as being proactive in providing support and guidance to my team.

Another challenge I faced was learning how to balance the technical and non-technical aspects of my job. As a technical leader, I still had to stay up to date with the latest technologies and industry trends, but I also had to manage time, plan projects, and communicate with stakeholders. This required me to develop strong time management skills, the ability to prioritize my tasks and improve interpersonal skills.

As a developer, I was used to focusing on individual tasks and solving technical problems. However, as a technical leader, I learned that it was important to take a step back and consider the bigger picture. My role was no longer just about putting puzzle pieces in the right place, but rather ensuring that all of the pieces fit together to create a cohesive and successful project. This required me to think more strategically and focus on the overall vision and goals of the team, rather than just my own specific responsibilities.

Accomplishments

Despite these challenges, I was able to achieve a number of accomplishments as a technical leader. One of the things I am most proud of is helping to grow and develop the skills of my team. I enjoyed being able to share my knowledge and experience with others, and it was gratifying to see my team members grow and succeed in their roles.

In addition, I was able to lead my team to successful project deliveries and improve our processes and efficiency. By focusing on continuous learning and improvement, we were able to deliver high-quality products and exceed the expectations of our clients.

Summary

Overall, the transition from developer to the technical leader was not easy, but it was definitely worth it. I learned a lot about myself and gained valuable skills that I will carry with me throughout my career and personal life. If you are considering making a similar transition, I would recommend being open to new experiences, being willing to learn and adapt, and most importantly, being confident in your abilities as a leader.

Thank you for reading, if you have any questions regarding leading a technical team - feel free to ask here 🙌.