We recommend: Michael Lopp — 'The Art of Leadership'

We recently read Michael Lopp’s ‘The Art of Leadership’ and we really enjoyed it.

Our Thoughts

Michael Lopp, a veteran engineering leader with experience at major tech companies like Apple, is well-known for his sharp, insightful writing on leadership and workplace dynamics, often infused with dry humor and relatable anecdotes. His blog, Rands in Repose, has become a staple for engineering managers seeking wisdom with a side of wit, and his books, like Managing Humans, blend deep experience with entertaining storytelling. His humor shines in the way he skewers corporate absurdities while offering genuinely useful advice. Beyond writing, Lopp is also the creator of the Rands Leadership Slack, a thriving online community where thousands of engineers and managers exchange ideas, share struggles, and, true to his style, engage in plenty of irreverent banter.

The book is a collection of insightful essays packed with practical tips and tricks for engineering managers. Drawing from his extensive experience, Lopp shares guidance on navigating leadership challenges, fostering team culture, and making effective decisions. One of his key insights is that it takes ninety days to truly understand a new job—after an initial honeymoon period, a month of doubt follows, where everything broken or strange about the role becomes glaringly obvious, making you question your decision. Another highlight is his reliance on the whiteboard as a leadership tool, using it to visually map out evolving situations, helping to clarify discussions and track shifting priorities. Throughout the book, Lopp's signature humor and real-world wisdom make it a must-read for managers looking to level up their leadership skills.

Call to Action

Do you have a go-to tool, like Lopp’s whiteboard, to help you clarify complex situations and communicate evolving priorities? If not, what visual or organizational method could you start using today?