Transition from Manager to Pure Management
In the previous posts we’ve covered advancing from individual contributor to manager and from manager to managing managers. The next linear stop on the leadership journey is pure management.
The most challenging part of this change is completely leaving the role of individual contributor behind.
The most challenging part of this change is completely leaving the role of individual contributor behind. The position of department or functional manager is pure management, it requires a shift in focus from managing people directly to driving results through others and your functional expertise.
Success in this transition requires collaboration, ongoing coaching, and commitment from the manager and the organization’s leadership. But there are things the manager can do to help ensure success.
Identify and refine key skills: This includes identifying high performers within your new area, delegating to develop others and ensure your own effectiveness, and coaching your team to their current roles and career.
Identify areas within your new role where you may not have expertise: Developing an understanding of the technical and operational aspects of your functional area and staying updated on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices.
Add skip-level communication to your toolbox: Learning to communicate effectively with individual contributors who are now 2 management levels below you without undermining their managers.
Advocate for your department for resources while developing relationships with your peers: Maintaining effective relationships with your peers while engaging in active competition for resources for your teams.
Adopt a big picture perspective to ensure alignment with strategic objectives: Becoming a proficient business and operational strategist for your area and clearly seeing how that supports the overall business objectives.
Most importantly, go as slow as you can in making the transition and changes. The most effective changes take place when guided by self-awareness, reflection, and intention. Taking time to understand where you are, where you need to be to succeed, and what is most important right now will result in a more successful transition.