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What I Learned From My First Boss About Managing
My career in accounting started off in 1980. I was straight out of school and in my first job. Like everyone else I had no idea about being in the workplace.
I was lucky enough to have a great boss called Bill who I learned so much from and whose wisdom and advice is just as relevant now over 35 years later.
So what did I learn from Bill about managing?
Set high standards
He may well have been hugely supportive but Bill set the bar high in terms of standards both in terms of work and behaviours.
It’s all too easy to set standards that are not challenging.
Teach people well
Yes you are busy and have a lot to do. Yes it will take time to sit down and teach someone how to do something.
On the other hand they learn and grow and are much more motivated to give their very best.
Professional development is not optional
Bill saw something in me and suggested I go to night school and do a part-time Diploma in Accounting. Looking back this was a catalyst for all that I went on to achieve.
As well as the formal qualifications he stressed the importance of growing as person.
Hard work and fun are compatible
The whole team worked hard. At the same time we all were able to have a laugh and a joke too. One was never at the expense of the others and when it really mattered we were all really focused.
Help others to move on and move up
No one wants to lose a good person. On the other hand no good manager wants to stand in the way of people progressing.
Go out of your way to help others to move on and move up.
Look for the potential in everyone
Everyone has untapped potential. The challenge for a lot of managers is that they are not actively looking for that untapped potential in people.
The Bottom Line: Managing is a real privilege and often it’s the small things that make the difference to the results you achieve.
Duncan Brodie helps accountants and professionals to be great managers and achieve more career success. Learn more here.
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.