Have you ever moved out (or considered to) from an EM role and came back?

Date : September 4, 2024
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Navigating the EM Role: The Journey of Transitioning and Returning

In the world of tech, the Engineering Manager (EM) role is often regarded as both rewarding and challenging. It requires a unique blend of technical acumen and people management skills, making it a pivotal position in any engineering team. However, the demands of this role can lead to a shift in perspective—how one views technology, business, and operational processes. This shift can sometimes spark the desire to step down from an EM role and explore other paths, such as Product Manager or Project/Delivery Manager.

The Allure of Change

For many professionals, the thought of changing roles may seem refreshing. After years of navigating the complexities of people management, the idea of returning to a hands-on technical position or transitioning to product management can be appealing. It’s not uncommon to seek a new challenge or to rediscover the excitement of building technology without the added responsibility of managing a team.

While I have thoroughly enjoyed my journey as an EM for over a decade, I recognize the energy-intensive nature of the role. The responsibility for the wellbeing and productivity of your team can weigh heavily, and it’s natural to wonder if a shift to a different job function might also be professionally enriching.

The Cost of Transitioning

However, transitioning from an EM role is not without its challenges. As one commenter noted, pursuing a pivot to product management can often come at a financial cost. Many hiring managers may not recognize the engineering “seniority” gained in an EM role when considering candidates for product management positions. This can result in a significant pay cut, which is something to weigh carefully before making a move.

Moreover, the fear of creating a gap in experience can also be a barrier. If you decide to explore a new role, you may find it more difficult to return to an EM position later on, especially if the new role does not align closely with your previous responsibilities. The tech landscape is constantly evolving, and the skills needed for an EM role can change over time, making it crucial to maintain relevant experience.

Seeking a Refreshing Experience

So, what’s the solution if you’re craving a change but don’t want to jeopardize your career trajectory? One suggestion from the community is to dive into an early-stage startup. These environments often require team members to wear multiple hats, allowing you to experience both product and delivery aspects of a project while still engaging in technical work. This dual role can provide the refreshing experience you seek without completely stepping away from your engineering roots.

The Return to EM Roles

Interestingly, while transitioning to a role like Delivery Manager or Product Manager can be a significant career change, many individuals who embark on this journey do not desire to return to the EM path. It appears that the nature of these roles often leads professionals to find their niche elsewhere. However, there are exceptions. A friend of mine shared the story of a former CTO who left a larger company to become a lead engineer in a smaller organization, highlighting that returning to an individual contributor (IC) role can offer valuable hands-on experience.

As we navigate our careers in tech, it’s essential to share our experiences and insights. Have you ever moved out of an EM role and returned? What challenges did you face? Did you find it difficult to secure an EM position again?

Let’s open up the discussion! Share your thoughts in the comments below—your experiences could help others who are contemplating a similar path. After all, the journey of a tech professional is often filled with twists and turns, and learning from one another can be the key to making informed decisions.

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