How to Lead a Project - as a Software Engineer

Gergely Orosz's detailed guide for software engineers leading projects for the first time. Key steps include: 1) Setup collaboration framework with stakeholder lists, kickoff meetings, documentation, and communication channels. 2) Manage risks by understanding all components, creating knowledge inventory, and 'calling out risks honestly as they arise.' 3) Communicate status through regular meetings, demos, and update emails. 4) Help team focus by guiding toward important milestones and delegating appropriately. 5) Motivate through positive environment and celebrating achievements. For first-time leads, specific actions include structured kickoffs, breaking down milestones, RFC planning processes, weekly updates, daily standups, setting team goals, demonstrating progress regularly, and conducting retrospectives. The philosophy: provide clear leadership while giving team members space to contribute and grow. Success comes from balancing structure with autonomy.