I recently had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Lukas Tencer, Google’s Director of Engineering, for an insightful podcast interview. Today, I’m excited to share some of the key takeaways from our conversation. If you’re a CTO or a senior technical leader, you’ll find this particularly valuable.
Watch the video on YouTube or below:
One of the first things Lukas emphasized was the importance of continuous learning. In an industry that evolves as rapidly as tech, staying up-to-date is not just beneficial—it’s crucial.
“I spend about 15 hours a week learning new things. It’s a mix of reading articles, listening to podcasts, and diving into research papers. Staying curious and informed keeps me ahead.” - Lukas Tencer
Imagine dedicating 15 hours a week to learning. It might sound overwhelming, but Lukas breaks it down into manageable chunks. He reads articles and books every morning, listens to audiobooks and podcasts during his commute, and stays updated with the latest trends and technologies. This dedication to learning ensures he remains at the forefront of the industry.
Lukas also talked about the significance of taking calculated risks in one’s career. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder or starting your own company, embracing risks can open up new opportunities.
“Putting yourself in situations where you can get lucky is key. It’s about taking calculated risks and stepping out of your comfort zone.” - Lukas Tencer
For many of us, taking risks can be daunting. However, Lukas’s approach is all about being strategic and thoughtful about the risks you take. It’s not about jumping into the unknown recklessly but about making informed decisions that can lead to significant growth.
As a CTO or senior technical leader, it’s not just about being technically proficient. Lukas highlighted the importance of balancing hard and soft skills.
“Technical knowledge alone isn’t enough. Developing management and leadership skills is crucial for a CTO.” - Lukas Tencer
Lukas shared that while it’s essential to stay technically competent, it’s equally important to develop leadership and management skills. This includes learning how to effectively manage teams, collaborate with other departments, and lead projects to success.
Networking is another critical area Lukas discussed. Even if you’re introverted, building a strong professional network can significantly impact your career.
“Despite being an introvert, I realized the importance of networking. Practical tips helped me overcome the fear of talking to strangers and build valuable connections.” - Lukas Tencer
Lukas’s advice is to start small. Attend meetups, join professional groups, and gradually build your network. He emphasized the value of having a mentor and connecting with peers who can offer support and guidance.
A recurring theme in our conversation was the idea of never settling for the status quo. Lukas encouraged always looking for ways to improve and drive projects forward.
“Never be satisfied with the status quo. Continuously ask yourself how you can improve and push for better results.” - Lukas Tencer
This mindset of constant improvement is what sets great leaders apart. Lukas’s drive to always seek better solutions and innovations is a key factor in his success.
To wrap up, here are some practical tips from Lukas that you can start implementing today:
Allocate Time for Learning: Dedicate a few hours each week to read articles, listen to podcasts, or study research papers. Consistency is key.
Embrace Calculated Risks: Identify opportunities where taking a risk could lead to significant growth. Plan and prepare for these opportunities.
Develop Soft Skills: Focus on improving your management and leadership skills. This will enhance your ability to lead teams and collaborate effectively.
Network Strategically: Attend industry events, join professional groups, and connect with peers. Building a strong network is invaluable.
Seek Continuous Improvement: Always look for ways to improve and innovate. Never settle for the status quo.
“In the fast-paced world of technology, staying ahead requires continuous learning, taking risks, and never settling for the status quo.” - Lukas Tencer
I hope you find these insights as inspiring as I did. Stay curious, keep learning, and continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
If you are eager to know more about Lukas and his work, you can connect with him on LinkedIn.