Out Now
So You Think You Can Lead A Team? is a firsthand look into what team leadership means. Bringing real world examples into everyday workplace situations, So You Think… offers practical advice and support for those considering a position in leadership, as well as advancement for those already established in their role.
Although rooted in software development, this guide can be applied in almost any work scenario where project management, team mentoring and decision making are key.
Written by Paul Grenyer, someone who has been led and now leads, the book pulls advice and input from professionals across the full spectrum of software engineering to distill what leadership means in a practical sense, and how best to achieve the best from a team, as well as giving them your best.
ISBN: 979-8-269-11432-3
When I first met Paul as a fellow software engineer I can't say I'd have immediately identified him as a future team leader. Though it might not sound like one, this is a resounding recommendation for his book on team leading. It isn't a role Paul went into with all the skills already under his belt. I doubt many people do. What matters is that he has paid attention, reflected and, most importantly, cared passionately about learning how to be the leader his teams deserve. He's learned by careful observation, and in this book he shares what he's learned, making it a really practical guide for others to follow in his footsteps.
As a topic, team leadership has the potential for dryness, platitudes and eye-glazing, but Paul tells it differently. This is a book told from the heart and from the trenches. Leadership is built on a foundation of communication that is compassionate, considered and continuous. Developers and development organisations often get wrapped up in a narrow view of their work, but there is more of value than just the work. And, to lead, Paul reminds you leadership is about teamwork not leaderwork, focus on delegation not control, distributing work rather than hoarding it. Delivered with stories, experience and honesty, Paul paints the bigger picture with fine brushstrokes.
Paul provides some helpful guide rails for anyone taking their first steps as a team leader, based on his own experiences and reflections. He also shows how his own thinking is developing, even though the process of writing the book. A straightforward, easy read for those new to leading tech teams, with contributions from a wide range of colleagues throughout.
"So You Think You Can Lead A Team?" is a practical and relatable guide to leadership. Paul shares honest stories from his own journey, including mistakes, insights and what really works when stepping into a team lead role. The writing is clear, down to earth and full of actionable insights you can apply immediately. Whether you’re a new team lead or an experienced engineer looking to build stronger relationships and communication within your team, this book will give you both confidence and direction.
An honest tale of a struggle many people face, this is the furthest I've gotten into a book in decades. Paul's openness shines through in an almost biographical format, where he takes us along his journey, sharing not just the insights but the context behind them. We learn together. Packed with perfect tidbits and nuggets of information, this is an efficient and enjoyable read.
Making the transition from valued individual contributor to valued leader of teams is tough. Paul Grenyer offers a well-balanced mix of personal experience and trusted opinion to build a solid set of ‘do’s & don’ts’. A recommended read for future, new or challenged leaders in software teams. Nice one, Paul!