Forget shipping code; your superpower as a Principal Engineer is strategic influence and driving measurable business outcomes. Instead of deep dives into code, you’ll expand your scope by building cross-org connections, picking high-ROI problems, delegating smartly, and planning for succession. And before you chase that next promotion, ask yourself if it really lights you up.
Thriving at this level means mastering ambiguity—ask better questions, snag early wins, and use a 30-60-90-day playbook when you land somewhere new. Amp up your influence with writing, earn trust through DACI decision-making, and shape culture by modeling fresh norms (think engineering anthropologist). Ultimately, treat your career like a product: reflect, plan your roadmap, and keep iterating.
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