Transitioning into a management role in tech requires new skills—leadership, communication, and strategic thinking. These books are widely recommended for first-time tech managers who want practical guidance and real-world insights.
1. The Manager’s Path: A Guide for Tech Leaders Navigating Growth and Change
Author: Camille Fournier
This is one of the most popular books for new engineering managers. It explains every step of the tech leadership journey—from managing individuals to leading entire organizations.
Best for: Software engineers becoming managers
Key focus: Career progression, mentoring, tech leadership
2. High Output Management
Author: Andrew S. Grove
A timeless management classic written by Intel’s former CEO. The book focuses on productivity, decision-making, and building high-performing teams.
Best for: Process-driven tech leaders
Key focus: Meetings, performance, managerial leverage
3. Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity
Author: Kim Scott
This book teaches managers how to give honest feedback while still caring deeply about their teams—a critical skill in modern tech environments.
Best for: Improving communication and feedback
Key focus: Trust, transparency, leadership culture
4. An Elegant Puzzle: Systems of Engineering Management
Author: Will Larson
Written specifically for engineering managers, this book covers organizational design, hiring, scaling teams, and long-term technical strategy.
Best for: Engineering and technical managers
Key focus: Systems thinking, scaling teams
5. The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You
Author: Julie Zhuo
A highly relatable book for new managers, written by a former Facebook leader. It focuses on confidence-building and practical day-to-day management advice.
Best for: First-time people managers
Key focus: Confidence, team motivation, leadership basics
Conclusion
Becoming a first-time manager in tech is a journey filled with learning, challenges, and growth. The right books can act as mentors—helping you build confidence, communicate effectively, and lead high-performing teams with clarity and empathy.
The five books listed above are widely regarded as must-reads for new tech managers, offering practical frameworks, real-world examples, and timeless leadership principles. Whether you’re transitioning from an individual contributor role or refining your people-management skills, these resources will help you lay a strong foundation for long-term success.
Invest in your leadership growth today, and you’ll see the impact not just in your career—but in the teams you lead.