Is management the career you went into first?
I am looking into going into management and I was wondering if it is something that you worked up to or if it is what you were immediately pulled to by interest. #management
5 answers
Tenisha’s Answer
Great question Sophia!!
I completely agree with Pam, building a good foundation will assist you in being a successful leader. Many managers are good leaders, but then lack true leadership skills/attributes.
Pam’s Answer
Hello! I found that it best to start out at a lower level to get the lay of the land in the industry where you will be concentrating.
For example, I am in IT years ago I was a Tester. I learned the application I was responsible for testing and became such an expert I was then able to be a Test Lead/Manager on that application. I then had testers reporting to me as the manager.
I hope that helps! Good luck!
Ashley’s Answer
I have a BA degree, I wanted to be an art teacher. Several schools were being built in my area. As a temporary job I started working at a telecommunications company. I was creating screens for frontline users. I was able to use my art skills and apply them. I was doing so well that I started training new people on my team. I started to focus on how to be a servant leader and found mentors that helped me become an even better leader. I built a personal brand and was recommended by other managers for management positions. I became a successful manager because I was a successful leader. Not all managers are leaders. Build your personal brand and focus on being a leader. Find managers that inspire you you and ask them to mentor you. Management positions will open for you.
Jordan’s Answer
Hi Sophia-
I also agree with the above answers.
If the opportunity were to present itself to you allowing you to enter at a management level, and it is something you are interested in I would certainly encourage you to pursue it. I would also suggest taking time to understand the bottom line, work closely with those you are managing to understand what their day to day struggles are.
The most effective manager is the one who has done the work, understands the processes and procedures, and leads the team toward the common goal. Without having the experience or knowledge of the other levels, you could be in a very difficult position as far as making appropriate decisions, and gaining respect from those working for you.
I had a manager at one point in time who was posed the following question: "How many people work for you?" without hesitation she said, "None. I work for them." this is the mentality I try to carry with me and truly believe in most environments works best!