21 direct reports is far too many to be an effective manager. I currently manage 8 technical people and 8-10 seems to be the sweet spot, where I have time to d

21 direct reports is far too many to be an effective manager. I currently manage 8 technical people and 8-10 seems to be the sweet spot, where I have time to do things like have 1-1s, help with career planning, get people promoted, deal with escalations or cross-team issues, hire replacements, etc. I have had as many as 15 and after 10 you really just have to start picking what you want to fall off of your plate as a manager. Unfortunately, the things that fall off first are the things that help your direct reports the most. Eventually, you just get behind on everything and end up being completely reactive and only able to focus on short-term solutions. 21 direct reports are a lot if you want to be a good manager and support your people.