If you hire a builder, would you tell them where to place the first brick?
This isn't just a construction metaphor — it's a real question about trust, delegation, and how we lead developers, teams, and projects.
Let’s explore that idea through a quick quiz designed for developers, tech leads, and anyone working with professionals in software or beyond.
👷♂️ Leadership & Delegation Quiz
Theme: Empowering vs. Micromanaging in Software Projects
Q1:
When hiring a skilled professional (e.g., a builder or developer), what is generally the most effective way to begin a project?
- A. Tell them exactly how to do each step, including where to place the first brick
- B. Define the vision and outcome, then let them plan the execution
- C. Do it yourself to ensure it’s done right
- D. Avoid giving any input to encourage full creativity
Q2:
What does "placing the first brick" metaphorically represent in leadership?
- A. Doing the hard labor
- B. Giving strict instructions on how to start
- C. Initiating the project with vision
- D. Controlling every single detail
Q3:
Which leadership style builds the most trust with a skilled team?
- A. Delegative – give them the goal, let them figure out how
- B. Autocratic – tell them exactly what to do and how to do it
- C. Laissez-faire – disappear and let them manage entirely
- D. Transactional – reward only if they do it your way
Q4:
If your goal is innovation and efficiency, what’s the best move after hiring experts?
- A. Watch them constantly to ensure correct execution
- B. Let them take initiative and make key decisions
- C. Write out a full step-by-step process for them
- D. Start the work before they arrive
Q5:
What’s the risk of telling builders exactly where to place the first brick?
- A. They may ask for more input
- B. You delay the start of the project
- C. You reduce their ability to problem-solve or bring their expertise
- D. There is no risk — control equals quality
✅ Answer Key & Reflection
- Q1: B
- Q2: C
- Q3: A
- Q4: B
- Q5: C
💬 Final Thought
In software (as in construction), hiring experts means trusting them. It’s tempting to micromanage, especially when the stakes are high. But innovation rarely thrives under tight reins. Hire well, communicate clearly, and get out of the way when needed.
🧠 How do you balance vision and autonomy in your projects?
Drop your answers, thoughts, or your own metaphors in the comments below!
"Always remember everyone can read, but not everybody can understand." Ethern Myth
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