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4 Reasons Why Professionals Struggle As Managers
Most people in professions face a dilemma.
They know that to climb the career ladder they are going to have to move into a management role.
Some really love managing but for a lot of professionals it can be a struggle.
So why is this?
Reason 1: It’s a different type of role
Most professions are rules or process based. If you follow the rules or process you get the result you set out to achieve.
Management is a lot less predictable.
You can take a certain action in one situation and it works perfectly.
You take the same action in what appears to be exactly the same type of situation and it goes horribly wrong.
How people react is often what creates the lack of predictability.
Reason 2: You have to put your trust in others
If you’re someone who likes to be in control of things and do things personally it can be hard as a manager.
Ultimately you have to be willing to put your trust in others.
They might let you down.
And your reputation might be damaged.
Of course if you don’t put trust in others you will still fail because you will simply become overloaded.
Reason 3: You won’t always have all of the answers
Are you okay with this?
While it might be nice to think that you are the best at everything.
This can never be the case.
There will be times when you don’t know.
So don’t let your ego get in the way of asking for help or admitting that you don’t have all the answers.
Reason 4: Success is not down to your technical ability
Being a success in management is less about how technical ability and a lot more about your interpersonal skills.
You can be really mediocre in your professional field but an exceptionally good manager.
The good news: With the right attitude and willingness to learn you can become a highly effective manager.
About the Author Duncan Brodie
Since 2006 I’ve worked with in excess of 8,000 accountants and professionals in workshops, seminars and one to one helping them land their next jobs and become better leaders, presenters and business partners. Before that I spent 25 years in accountancy climbing the career ladder from Payments Clerk to FD. I’m a CIMA Fellow, Certified Professional Coach and Team Coach Facilitator.