Manager vs Individual Contributor

Friendly reminder: Not everyone is manager material (or wants to be).

I’ve seen individual contributors (ICs) who:

• Don’t want to become people managers
• Become managers because it’s seen as the only way to advance
• Would prefer to become senior ICs

Choosing not to become a manager doesn’t show a lack of ambition. It doesn’t mean you’re unsuccessful. And it certainly doesn’t mean that you’re not a leader.

That’s why I love seeing companies offer two distinct tracks for ICs and managers (with similar base pay bands). 💰

Because let’s face it - pigeonholing people into a managerial track doesn’t help anyone. And that’s how you end up with mediocre managers, unhappy employees, and underperforming teams.

So keep learning, keep building, and find a company that will empower you to grow in the way that’s best for you. Manager or not. 🙌🏽