Engineering as a calisthenic: Confidence, Honesty, and Teamwork
During a recent interview, I was asked, “What is your favorite type of engineer to work with?” Reflecting on my experience collaborating with diverse personalities, I’ve found that engineers who combine confidence in their abilities with honesty about their limitations stand out as exceptional partners, who built stronger teams and more successful projects.
Why Honesty and Confidence Matter
In my work with software engineers, I’ve come to deeply value those who are transparent about their competencies and boundaries. It takes courage, self-assurance, and a teamwork mentality to openly acknowledge a skill gap and take proactive steps to address it. These engineers don’t shy away from admitting what they don’t know—instead, they see it as an opportunity to grow, which benefits both themselves and the team.
The Impact on Project Dynamics
Engineers who are honest about their abilities play a pivotal role in enhancing project planning. Their transparency leads to more accurate estimations of timelines, budgets, and required resources, reducing the risk of overpromising and underdelivering. By being upfront about their skills, limitations, and willingness to upskill, they contribute to smoother workflows, better collaboration, and a more realistic understanding of what’s needed to succeed.
Why They’re Rewarding to Work With
I’ve found working with these types of engineers to be incredibly rewarding, especially when overseeing projects of varying scales. Their confidence ensures they deliver high-quality work in areas where they excel, while their honesty prevents missteps in areas where they need support. This balance creates a collaborative environment where trust and growth thrive, making projects not only more manageable but also more enjoyable.
Traits That Make a Difference
- Transparency: Being open about strengths and weaknesses builds trust and sets realistic expectations.
- Proactivity: Addressing skill gaps by seeking to learn or collaborate shows initiative and dedication.
- Team-Oriented Mindset: Recognizing that success is a group effort fosters better communication and support.
- Confidence in Expertise: Delivering reliably in their areas of strength ensures consistent quality and progress.
The best engineers I’ve worked with are those who blend confidence with honesty, creating a foundation for effective collaboration and project success. Their transparency and teamwork mentality not only improve planning and execution but also make the journey more rewarding, building a culture where everyone can grow and thrive together.