[tyleo]

I personally would threaten. Setting clear boundaries is important, “I’m unhappy in my current role and I’m looking for new opportunities. I’d love to find one at _this_ company but if we can’t work something out I may have to leave.”

I’ll admit though that I’m biased and my own team is currently looking for high-level ICs (senior and principal) who want to stay and grow in that role. If you (or any readers) are interested message [e-mail]

I’m a high-level IC who used to manage a team of 12. Company was more than happy to let me do IC work, hired a manager of my choice to fill my previous role, _and_ promoted me with pay increase after the transition. I’d say my work is ~50% coding, ~25% architecture discussions, 12% mentoring, and 12% leadership meetings.