Episode Transcript
One thing that you love about being an engineer is getting into the details.
Digging in deep to solve problems.
It’s part of the fun. Part of the mystery. And the satisfaction of finding solutions.
But as you move up into leadership, the big picture becomes more important.
And details, less so.
At some point you have to leave the digging to others.
Even if you stay on the technical track, the big picture eventually becomes more important.
Because at some point you’ll be asked to provide your technical perspective of the big picture.
As a more experienced engineer, it’s beneficial for you to know how to step back and take a wider view.
So it’s a good idea to start learning big picture skills earlier.
What it Means to Have a Big Picture Mindset as an Engineer
A big picture mindset means you have the ability to take into account factors and situations beyond your own job.
To consider happenings – both technical and business – in other organizations and communities that affect yours.
You’re aware of progress and work going on in other departments and divisions.
You’re connected to news and events around you.
And you can read signs from industry and the world at large.
Ways for Engineers to Develop Big Picture Mindsets
There are many ways to develop your big picture mindset. Like
- Reading, listening and watching – about technology, business and other news.
- Attending conferences and other professional events.
- Engaging in conversation with people in the know.
But the problem is not so much learning the big picture, but staying in that mindset.
Because you’re an engineer. And it’s so easy to slip back into the details.
To go back where you’re comfortable.
And big picture thinking tends to get a little pie-in-the-sky.
Whereas – like most engineers – you like to hang around where there are more facts. More known processes. And reality thinking.
One thing you can do to get into the big picture habit is establish some practices. Like
- Pondering tough questions and other perspectives.
- Applying disruptive thinking.
- Mind mapping.
- And revisiting your purpose. And your organization’s purpose.
The Big Picture Mindset has Benefits for You and Your Engineering Career
To help you stay in the big-picture mindset, consider all the benefits.
Big picture thinking enables you to participate in planning for and creating the future.
As you become more experienced, people are going to look to you for ideas on what’s next in your organization.
At first it’s a little scary. I know that feeling. Like you’re just not good at that.
But you have ideas. You have experience. And you can predict as well as anyone.
Maybe you’re unpracticed. Or you have a different take than others.
But that doesn’t mean you’re not capable.
By engaging in big picture thinking you’re bringing in fresh ideas and new growth.
Big picture thinking improves decision making and problem solving.
You’re helping your organization have more of an impact. A wider sphere of influence.
You’re enabling people to see how their roles fit. And you’re helping them unify and work together better.
Big picture thinking enables you to let go of little things. Which is more freeing and enables you to add more value at a higher level.
You’re becoming more open-minded and strategic.
Overall, big picture thinkers help your organization with resilience, agility, innovation, creativity, strategy, foresight, performance, and motivation.
Embracing Your Role as an Engineer and a Big Picture Thinker
As you move into higher level leadership in the organization, I want to help you embrace your role as a big picture thinker.
It’s an important part of your career growth that we can work on together.
You can learn more about working with me here. And start the process by filling out an application or signing up for a Strategy Session.
Embrace your role as a big picture thinker. And if you find yourself spending too much time in the weeds, remember your purpose.
Remember your role in helping people do their best work and reach their career goals.
While helping the organization successfully navigate the challenges of progress and meeting the mission.
Next time on Her Engineering Career Podcast, I’ll feature Part 1 of a 3-part miniseries about women engineers, the bosses they work for and the workplaces that support them.
Don’t miss this milestone Episode 150.