Things that matter for growing a career

A guide on lessons learnt from being an IC vs Manager.

Sep 03, 2024

Hi, I’m Felix! Welcome to this week’s ADPList’s Newsletter; 🔒 subscriber-only edition 🔒 weekly advice column. I write high-quality insights on designing products people love and leadership in tech. If you’re interested in sponsoring us, let’s chat!

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Now on to today’s post…

Hello Friends 👋

After seven years of working in tech and three years into starting the world’s fastest-growing mentorship community with over 500K+ members, I think I learned a thing or two about growing one’s career that I want to share.

I spent much of the first couple of years of my career working with companies and then running ADPList today. I believe I have picked up a few heuristics about what matters for growing a career.

I even consulted a few friends on this—thanks to Olaf, Elizabeth Bethany, Zeth Lee, Norman Wanto, Michelle C, Rodey, Lenny Lee, Michael Pham, and many more.

Here are a few themes that stood out to me over time:

TLDR; the most critical skills for each type of roles in the company:

Individual Contributor

Consistent Skill Development
Receiving Mentorship
Visibility within the Organization
Proactiveness
Technical Expertise
Continuous Learning
Writing and Communication Skills

Management/Leadership

Networking
Receiving and Giving Mentorship
Visibility within the Organization
Emotional Intelligence
Strategic Thinking
Critical Thinking
Building Trust and Credibility

Key differences and strategies: IC vs Management

The most surprising realization was that there are many overlap but it is filled with naunce. It is important to recognize how each factor means differently as an IC and Management.

The one exception is presentation and communication. This is an important skillset regardless of which track you’re on; the need to tell great stories and sell yourself and your work is SUPER critical.

Ultimately, these more universal principles were more interesting to explore and write about, but they took a few layers of exploration to unveil themselves.

I can’t believe how fast time goes. Here is to more years of growth!

Have a fulfilling and productive week ahead! 🙏

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I'll keep creating great stuff if you keep reading. I read every reply if you care to reply :). You might get an answer back.

Until next week.

Felix Lee