I’m currently a EM facing layoffs at Disney and having somewhat of a career crisis. I still enjoy management, but the last several months of my job have left me very unfulfilled. This has everything to do with the place I’m at, but I’m wondering if it might be time to ride the pendulum over to the IC side again. I haven’t been an IC in about 8 years and I’ve stayed on top of the latest trends in our world conceptually, but haven’t implemented anything myself in a while. I’m also seeing the trend of companies culling managers that can’t contribute code and don’t want to be stalled by that. Maybe it makes sense to take an engineering role at an early to mid stage startup and lean on my leadership experience while I sharpen my technical skills. I don’t think I can contribute code-wise at a senior level right now, but am willing to take a substantial pay cut to figure out what’s next for my career. I’d like to hop back into management later and my hope is doing IC work can help propel my career to VP level after the fact. Has anyone taken this course and have anecdotes on how it worked out for them? TC: 400k
I would not switch to IC if I were you. If you wait a little, there would be enough opportunities for your to switch as an EM.
Leetcode my friend
Life is much better as a staff + engineer.
Doesn’t sound like a good career strategy. Only do it if you have to do so to survive.
The trend of companies looking to cull non-coding EMs will reverse the moment the market flips. It's blind leading the blind right now. If your goal is to get to VP then stick with eng leadership roles. Like doordash hinted at, think about what makes you happier (relatively)
What's your total year of experience?
15 YOE. A bunch of that was database work before hopping into SWE and then management
You are in panic. Take a step back, relax and take such decisions over a longer period of time. Being an IC isn't easy, and being a senior IC is way tougher. It is much tougher than being in management. You should pick the roles according to your strengths. Otherwise, you will just burn out and quit.
Probably good advice. I sincerely appreciate it.
Years ago (@ 9 YOE) I switched from a 200K TC manager role at a big corporation to a 175K IC role at a small company. Best career move I ever made. Didn't realize how stale my tech skills were getting, got up to speed quickly once I was hands on again and career has taken off from there.
Your reply gives me some hope. I am in similar boat as OP considering switching from management to IC. Although not in any kind of layoff risk and have a good reputation as a manager. Just tired of the typical mgmt BS. Have been in mgmt for the past ~13 years. Have tried my best to stay sharp with latest tech trends but worry that I might be getting rusty without being hands on. Considering switching to an IC role and looking at either full stack or machine leaning IC roles.
Why did you move into management in the first place?