How to use your development budget in 2024 as a Tech Lead

Don’t leave money on the table! 19 ideas for spending your development budget:

9 out of 10 techies I talk to don’t use their development budget. Every time I hear that, I get so frustrated! 😠 The most common reasons are:

“I don’t want to upset anyone” 

Using your development budget isn’t just a right; it shows your commitment to growth. 

You’re not doing anyone a favor by letting it expire, just missing out on a growth opportunity. 

“I don’t know how to request it”

• check your company's documentation

• ask your manager about the process during your next 1-1

Very often it’s simpler than you think! 😉

“Not sure how to convince my manager to approve it”

Here’s how to make it as easy as possible for them to say "yes":

1. Be clear about the training you want: research the course and provide details - what it is, who offers it, and its relevance.

2. Explain the value: outline how this training will benefit not just you but also your manager and the team. Will it enhance your technical skills? Improve collaboration? Boost project efficiency?

3. Personal motivation: share why it matters to you personally. Perhaps it aligns with your growth goals or will help you step into a leadership role.

4. Cost transparency: provide the exact cost, so there are no surprises.

5. Impact on work: be upfront about when the training takes place and how it will affect your availability. Reassure them that it won’t negatively impact key deadlines or projects.

Make it hard for them to say no by being well-prepared and leaving no room for uncertainty.

Follow Up: If they don’t respond by the agreed time, follow up. Reiterate why this is important to you and how it will contribute to your work.

The less they have to think about it, the easier it is for them to say "yes.” 😉

“I don’t know what to spend it on”

Here are 19 simple ideas:

📚 Books 

• The Making Of A Manager - Julie Zhou 

• Managing Humans - Michael Lopp 

• The Manager's Path - Camille Fournier

• Talking with Tech Leads - Pat Kua  

💬 Tech Conferences & Events

💬 We are developers

▶️ Women in tech Global conference (remote)

▶️ Lead Dev

🧑‍🏫 Online Courses 

▶️ O‘Reilly platform courses

Check out Soft Skills for Tech Leads course

Soft Skills for Tech Leads course

▶️ Time Management for Technical Leaders

👥 Coaching 

Coaching can help you: 

• Manage your time efficiently between team, tech and business

• Delegate tasks

• Build confidence as a Tech Lead

• Dealing with conflict

• Provide constructive feedback

• Manage your stakeholders

• Get to the next level in your career

I have one spot left for a client and I am giving a 30% discount until the end of Nov. 

If you’re interested, just reply to this email, and I’ll send you all the details 😉

📰 Newsletters written by techies

Here are some but the list is endless:

Let’s make sure you use that budget before it’s too late!