EM Put on a Coaching Plan: Seeking Support and Navigating Career Challenges

In the fast-paced world of tech, career trajectories can often take unexpected turns. This is especially true for engineering managers who find themselves navigating complex dynamics within their organizations. Today, we delve into a real-life scenario where an engineering manager (EM) faces a challenging situation at a public tech company. This story highlights the importance of seeking support, the need for clear communication, and the complexities of career advancement in a corporate setting.

A Promising Start Turned Complicated

When our EM was hired by the VP of Engineering to manage a team of 14 software engineers, the prospects seemed bright. The initial discussions hinted at a role with significant scope and potential growth into a Director position. However, shortly after joining, the EM discovered that they would be reporting to a Director who was primarily focused on coding rather than managerial responsibilities. This left the EM with the weight of team management and decision-making.

Despite the unforeseen circumstances, the EM rose to the occasion. They effectively reorganized the team, established mission statements, and set up essential sprint ceremonies. The EM’s proactive approach caught the attention of the VP, who continued to engage with them through regular one-on-ones, even as the company underwent layoffs that changed the reporting structure.

The Reality of Reporting Structures

After a series of organizational changes, including the departure of both the VP and Director, the EM found themselves reporting to a Senior Director (SD) and later, another Director who showed little interest in the EM’s work. Despite the lack of direct oversight from the new Director, the EM maintained a strong relationship with the SD, keeping them updated on team progress and driving a high-visibility cross-organizational project.

However, as performance reviews approached, the EM faced unexpected feedback. While the SD had previously noted the need for the EM to be “more technical,” the EM was blindsided by the suggestion that they needed to ship code. This feedback was particularly disheartening given the EM’s strong performance and the absence of any prior indication that their performance was lacking.

The Shift to a Coaching Plan

The culmination of this feedback came during the H1 2024 performance review, just days before a planned vacation. The EM was informed that they would be placed on a coaching plan due to their perceived failure to meet expectations. This news was shocking, especially since the EM had consistently sought feedback and had not received any indication that their work was in jeopardy.

In that moment, the EM faced a dilemma: to stay and fight for their position or to seek new opportunities elsewhere. The coaching plan, intended as a tool for improvement, felt more like a punitive measure. The EM found themselves questioning their manager’s intentions and support.

Seeking Support: Is It Worth Talking to the VP?

In light of these developments, our EM pondered whether it was worth reaching out to the VP, who was now the SD’s manager. This decision carries weight, as it could either lead to a potential ally in the VP or further complicate the situation. Interestingly, feedback from peers suggested that, while it was indeed worth having a conversation with the VP, it was also prudent to continue exploring job opportunities simultaneously.

Navigating the Path Forward

As the EM grappled with feelings of disappointment and hurt, they recognized the importance of resilience and strategic planning. Here are some steps to consider when facing a challenging work situation like this:

1. Seek Clarity: If you find yourself in a similar position, ensure you have clear, actionable feedback from your manager. If communication has been lacking, consider requesting a dedicated meeting to discuss your performance and expectations.

2. Document Your Achievements: Keep track of your contributions and successes. This can serve as a strong foundation for discussions about promotions or raises.

3. Explore Internal Opportunities: If you feel unsupported in your current role, investigate other teams or departments within the company that may align better with your goals and values.

4. Network: Build relationships with other leaders in the organization. This can provide insight into potential opportunities and create allies who may advocate for you.

5. Consider External Options: If the environment feels toxic or unyielding, don’t hesitate to explore job openings elsewhere. Sometimes, a fresh start is the best solution.

6. Prioritize Self-Care: Take care of your mental health during this challenging time. Whether through vacations, hobbies, or talking to mentors, prioritize your well-being.

Conclusion

The journey of an engineering manager can be fraught with unexpected challenges and shifts in dynamics. The story of our EM serves as a reminder of the importance of communication, feedback, and support in the workplace. As they navigate their coaching plan and consider their future, it’s crucial to stay proactive, seek clarity, and maintain a focus on personal growth.

Whether you’re in a similar situation or simply interested in the complexities of

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