Self-growth
Business & Career
Success
Communication
Healing
Relationships
Psychology
HappinessYou’ll learn
- Techniques to boost your confidence
- Four features of constructive feedback
- About the struggles managers face
- How to conduct a job interview
Table of contents
first KEY POINT
A checklist for managers
The manager role is one of the most desired positions in the corporate world. Imagine not having to report to anybody — you have total freedom to express your ideas, and your colleagues look up to you. It sounds like a dream, but contrary to common belief, management is more than superior status and high income. Apart from arranging meetings, assigning projects, and making annual presentations, the manager must deal with three aspects:• Purpose — Each staff member must have a clear understanding of the main objective of the team. The manager's task is to instill the vision and persuade people to follow the same path.
• People — The supervisor looks for suitable candidates for roles and mentors subordinates. A solid interpersonal bond and constructive feedback are essential for a smooth workflow.
• Process — The manager allocates tasks rationally and oversees the team's progress. They keep track of deadlines and address urgent issues.
A manager must radiate leadership energy.
If you strive for a managerial position, before applying, ask yourself a few questions:• Do you prioritize team performance more than your efficiency?
• Are you comfortable with people? Do you enjoy talking to them?
• Are you ready to be a bearer of bad news? Can you handle firing an employee?If you have answered these questions positively, congratulations, you are on the right track. Your qualities correspond with a manager's requirements, making it easier for you to perform the role. This summary will guide you on how to boost your skills and create a successful team.
second KEY POINT
Carving your way to management
Don't be surprised if you receive a promotion to a managerial position. It means someone must have noticed your leadership talent and decided to steer it in the right direction. Generally, there are four possible scenarios that you can follow on your way to management:• Apprentice — Y ou act like an assistant to the manager; your responsibility is supervising small parts of the team. If you have no previous experience in management, this is a perfect opportunity to transition. Polish your management skills as you receive immediate feedback from your manager, who can evaluate your approach. The only hardship you might encounter is finding mutual understanding with your former peers. You must criticize, or issue demands to people who used to see you as an equal or even a friend. Don't be afraid to express your honest opinion to your colleagues — after all, if it will improve the general result, the remark is necessary.
• Pioneer — You are the creator of the team. It may be your start-up company or a new department needing supervision. The notable feature of such a management model is that you outline your values and work principles from scratch. Besides, you can hire the people you want. You might sometimes feel lonely — no one can advise you on how to deal with emerging issues, and you are your only support. Do not despair — outsource ideas and seek assistance from experts, or find people in your organization with considerable expertise and ask for help.
• New boss — Some companies practice hiring from the outside. They look for someone with relevant experience, so you probably know the drill if you are in this position. Take advantage of your ignorance in your early days as a new boss. Ask as many questions as possible, be an active listener, and don't be afraid to make mistakes.
• The successor — This transition to manager is similar to the apprentice's, but you must take over the whole team. This position might be challenging as your peers expect you to supervise the same way as the previous boss did. Don't be ashamed to embrace your management style — you will come across as a confident and determined personality.
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first KEY POINT
The must-haves of a manager
second KEY POINT
Destigmatize feedback culture
third KEY POINT
Ways to resist imposter syndrome
fourth KEY POINT
Become a pro at hiring people
fifth KEY POINT
Conclusion
Related summaries
Frequently asked questions
What is The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You about?
The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You, authored by Julie Zhuo, explores the essential skills and mindset required for effective management. It provides practical advice on navigating transition from individual contributor to manager, emphasizing guidance, feedback, and building strong teams.
What are the key takeaways from The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You?
Key takeaways include understanding the importance of self-awareness, being open to feedback, and the value of relationships in management. Zhuo emphasizes that effective managers prioritize their team's growth and foster an environment of trust and collaboration.
Is The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You worth reading?
Yes, The Making of a Manager is highly recommended for new and aspiring managers seeking to build their leadership skills. Its relatable insights, grounded in Zhuo's real-world experience, make it a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their managerial effectiveness.
How many pages is The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You and when was it published?
The Making of a Manager spans approximately 240 pages and was published in March 2019. This concise yet impactful read is perfect for those looking to gain management insights quickly.
What management skills are emphasized in The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You?
The book emphasizes key management skills such as effective communication, providing constructive feedback, and fostering team dynamics. Zhuo details how building relationships and developing a personal management style are crucial for long-term success.