Mistakes you shouldn't let your reports make

Overview
The article discusses the balance between allowing team members to learn from their own errors and the responsibility of technical leaders to intervene when mistakes could have costly or damaging consequences. It highlights specific situations where a manager should step in early to protect the team, the product, and the organization.

Key Takeaways

• Not every mistake is a learning opportunity; some can jeopardize safety, compliance, or major timelines.
• Leaders should set clear guardrails that define which errors are acceptable and which must be caught early.
• Proactive coaching and clear communication reduce the likelihood of repeat mistakes.
• Empowering teams while maintaining oversight creates a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Who Would Benefit

• Engineering managers and technical leads
• Senior engineers transitioning to leadership roles
• CTOs and VP of Engineering
• Anyone responsible for guiding high-performing software teams

Frameworks and Methodologies

• Situational Leadership
• Agile risk-based decision making
• Psychological safety principles