I came across a question on the Mechanical Engineering subreddit, r/MechanicalEngineering, where the Redditor described a dysfunctional company and what’s to know how to manage it.
That post got me thinking, how does someone learn the right way of doing things and how does someone improve this situation.
Network
I suggested to network more. By making friends in similar roles at other companies, you can figure out what they are doing, how they are doing it, and what the deliverables are and what the key performance indicators are. Compare what you are currently doing and see if it makes sense to take steps to implement similar things.
Infiltrate
A sneaky way to see what other organizations look like, is send our your resume and apply to other jobs. Linkedin is a great way to start this. First, you can analyze the job descriptions for key words, software used, or management methodologies. Second, you can act like a spy and interview. During the interview process, you can ask questions about how the team is made up and how their roles and responsibilities are divided. You may even find yourself with a better job!
Upgrade
A more traditional route is to go back to school. Getting an MBA, a Masters in Engineering Management, or even a Masters in Engineering, may provide guidance or management examples. The top program in my area for this is Tufts Gordon Institute. These advanced degrees can help you expand your network and teach you very relevant skills to management, but may cost you money if your employer doesn’t pay for it.
Implement
When I was in a similar spot as the Redditor, I did what I mentioned above. I networked, interviewed at other jobs, and even upgraded my resume by getting a Masters in Engineering working part-time. While doing this process, I applied what I learned. I made incremental improvements to my company’s engineering processes.
This worked for a couple of years until it was clear that the Upper Management started to resist more than before. I decided to spend more effort on looking for a new job. I was successful and now work under a supportive upper management where I can learn, grow, and implement what I have learned.