The path to technical leadership: how to go from developer to team leader
If software development feels like it is only part of your professional purpose, perhaps you should consider becoming a tech lead. A tech lead could mean different things: a team lead (with no direct reports), or a manager. For example, an engineering manager is a person who is responsible for the team and its projects. That means they are also responsible for peoples’ careers, business growth, deliverables, deadlines, culture, code standards, technical debt, and more.
If you’re a developer, it may not be clear how to get from where you are to a technical leadership position. If your goal is to become a manager soon, you will need to ask yourself why you want this role. Becoming a manager may or may not align with your long-term goals.
I got into software development because I felt more comfortable working with computers than people. But after a while I found myself helping other developers more and more. I enjoyed leading projects and pushing for better code standards. It was an obvious choice for me personally.
For many software engineers, growing as an individual contributor (IC) could be a more appropriate path. Many companies provide IC alternatives to management. These alternatives include a staff engineer, distinguished engineer or fellow engineer. These are very senior technical roles, but no one reports to them as they would to a manager.
