Welcome to ManagersClub, where you can learn from the world’s most successful and diverse engineering leaders and managers, as well as find curated management resources to help and inspire you to be a great engineering leader.
ManagersClub Podcast

In-depth conversations about engineering management with lessons and tips to make you a better leader and improve your career.
Starting a new management role can be daunting. To help new managers thrive, I spoke with Eric Girard, CEO of Girard Training Solutions, who shared his top tips for leadership success.
In this practical video, Eric reveals common new manager mistakes and how to avoid them. He explains the importance of setting clear goals, delegating effectively, and transitioning from individual work to leading a team.
Additional topics include:
– Cultivating empathy and emotional intelligence as a manager
– Creating an inclusive environment and seeking diverse perspectives
– Finding mentors and coaches to accelerate your growth
– Building trust through integrity, transparency, and fulfilling commitments
Eric also introduces his new book, ”Lead Like a Pro: The Essential Guide for New Managers,” packed with actionable advice.
Whether you're starting your first management role or looking to level up your skills, this video provides indispensable guidance to help you master the essentials and become a successful, respected leader.
Key Points in the Video:
(00:00) Introduction to the topic and guest, Eric Girard
(01:00) The importance of helping new managers get started
(02:40) Common mistakes new managers make and how to avoid them
(00:04:00) Setting goals and using goal-setting methodologies
(06:20) The art of delegation and its impact on team development
(10:00) Transitioning from a technical focus to operating in the realm of people and relationships
(13:00) The importance of empathy for new managers
(18:00) Advice for underrepresented minorities and women in tech
(20:10) The value of mentors and coaches for new managers
(25:30) Strategies for finding mentors and coaches
(28:00) Building and restoring trust as a manager
(32:10) Introduction to Eric's book, ”Lead Like a Pro: The Essential Guide for New Managers.”
(33:50) How to connect with Eric Girard for more insights and resources
Key Takeaways:
– Transitioning to a management role requires a shift from focusing solely on tasks to getting things done through a team.
– Setting clear goals and communicating them effectively is crucial for team alignment and productivity.
– New managers should embrace delegation, empowering their team members and creating growth opportunities.
– Effective managers cultivate empathy, actively listening to their team members and understanding their unique needs and experiences.
– Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to creating a positive and inclusive work environment. Managers should actively seek diverse perspectives and build relationships with people from different backgrounds.
– Finding mentors and coaches can accelerate the growth and development of new managers, providing valuable insights and guidance.
– Trust is the foundation of successful management. Managers must keep commitments, maintain confidentiality, and act in ways that build and restore trust within their teams.
Eric's website and contact info:
https://www.girardtrainingsolutions.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericpgirard/
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ABOUT ME: I'm Vidal, an entrepreneur, author, podcaster, and engineering leader working in the SF Bay Area. I am on a mission to help and inspire engineering leaders everywhere!
🔗 CONNECT WITH ME:
⭐️ My website: https://www.managersclub.com
⭐️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidalgraupera
⭐️ Twitter: https://twitter.com/vgraupera
⭐️ ManagersClub LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13846374/
⭐️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@managersclub
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