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The scrappy/scale mindset: A framework for sustainable engineering leadership
Learn how to identify team contexts & adapt leadership styles between "scale" and "scrappy" modes. A framework for sustainable engineering leadership & preventing burnout.
- The Scrappy Scale Mindset is a framework that helps leaders identify and respond to different team contexts
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Teams operate in two main modes:
- Scale mode: Characterized by stability, autonomy, proper staffing, and long-term planning
- Scrappy mode: Marked by constraints, understaffing, or crisis situations
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Versatility in leadership requires:
- Developing different skills for each mode
- Reading and responding appropriately to context changes
- Regular practice and self-awareness
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Leadership skills needed vary by mode:
- Scale mode requires strategic thinking, enablement, coaching, empowerment
- Scrappy mode demands decisive action, aggressive communication, immediate solutions
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Steps to implement the framework:
- Identify current team context (scale vs scrappy)
- Observe context shifts
- Adjust leadership style accordingly
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Success requires:
- Building a wide range of complementary skills
- Practicing responses in low-stakes situations
- Regular self-assessment and reflection
- Ability to shift modes before the team needs to
- Neither mode is inherently good or bad - they’re situational responses
- Leaders should aim to cultivate both modes to create clarity in any context
- Burnout often occurs when using wrong mode for extended periods
- Only about 10% of leaders achieve true leadership versatility