Leveling Up as a Tech Lead

Chapter 1. The Role of a Tech Lead

The tech lead role is one of the most misunderstood positions in the tech industry. It’s a role that exists at the intersection of people, technology, and business, and yet there’s little consensus on what it actually means. This lack of clarity often leaves new tech leads feeling unsure about what’s expected of them and how to approach the role effectively.

Every company seems to have its own version of the tech lead role, shaped by their culture, processes, and priorities. Some see the role as deeply technical, while others focus heavily on team dynamics and processes. Understanding these differences and defining what it means within your specific context is the first step to succeeding as a tech lead.

That’s why, in this chapter, I’ll outline the essential aspects of the tech lead role to help you understand what to expect and how to approach it. I’ll begin by defining what a tech lead is, including the scope and daily responsibilities. Then, I’ll explore how to make sense of the expectations placed on you, whether you have a formal job description or not, and offer guidance on evaluating whether this role is right for you.

I’ll also look at the different paths people take to become a tech lead, from transitioning within your current team to forming entirely new ones. Finally, I’ll cover the critical skills and mindset shifts you’ll need to go through in this transition.

What Is a Tech Lead?

When I ask tech leads, “What’s expected of you?” ...