Becoming a manager involves a process of identity work, with new managers experiencing a sense of loss and uncertainty, requiring patience and self-discovery.
The transition to management brings new pressures, necessitating the prioritization of tasks, setting boundaries, and seeking support to prevent burnout.
Deep dives
Becoming a Manager: Embracing Responsibility and Change
Becoming a manager brings about a significant shift in mindset and identity. New managers often feel a sense of growth and responsibility for their team's livelihood. While this newfound role can be uncomfortable, it also provides an opportunity for personal development. However, some managers experience a change in their demeanor, feeling more jaded and burnt out due to systemic issues within their workplace. Despite the challenges, many new managers feel more decisive and forward-thinking, especially when supported by a strong team. The transition to management can be overwhelming, causing managers to question their identity and wrestle with the loss of their previous role. Being a manager requires a shift from individual contribution to prioritizing the success of the team. The podcast highlights that finding one's managerial style takes time and experience, and it is essential for first-time managers to define their intentions and learn from admired leaders.
Navigating the Managerial Identity
Becoming a manager involves a process of identity work. Starting as an individual contributor and shifting to overseeing others can cause a sense of loss and uncertainty. It is common for new managers to question their capabilities and feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities. Defining one's managerial identity is a gradual process that combines prior experiences, influences, and lessons observed from other leaders. It is crucial to be patient with oneself throughout this journey of self-discovery and not rush into self-defining categories. The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding what matters most as a leader and using personal values as guideposts to inform decision making.
Coping with the Pressures of Management
The transition to management brings about new pressures, particularly when it comes to the well-being of employees and the organization's success. Managers may feel heightened stress due to increased workload, time management challenges, and the constant balancing act of tending to both individual and team needs. The podcast stresses the importance of prioritizing tasks, distinguishing between urgent and important matters, and setting boundaries to prevent burnout. While the desire for perfection is common, managers should acknowledge that 75% effort can often suffice. Seeking support from mentors and openly communicating with superiors about one's needs for personal development can also help alleviate the pressures of management.
The Journey of Personal Growth as a Manager
One of the key themes explored in the podcast is the personal growth that comes with being a manager. Managers often experience an increase in confidence and learn to make decisions that balance risks and rewards. This growth is accompanied by challenges such as time management and the realization that personal commitments may be compromised. The journey towards personal growth involves finding a rhythm of prioritization, separating urgent from important matters, and recognizing the positive impacts one can make on their team and the organization. While personal growth may momentarily stall due to the demands of the role, it is essential for managers to be easy on themselves and look for opportunities to continue developing their skills and expertise.
Assuming responsibility for someone else’s professional development and happiness changes you. But is it for the worse or for the better? The feelings can be mixed until you’re able to build your identity and confidence back up. Somehow this self-discovery has to happen while you’re meeting deadlines and feeling pressure to commit to more. How will you ever fit time in for your own professional development? Should career growth really feel this overwhelming?
Jen Dary regularly coaches first-time managers on questions like, “Who are you now?” “Who do you want to be?” and “How can you stretch without taking on too much?” She shares advice for finding yourself again, dealing with disillusionment, and setting priorities and boundaries. Then, a former guest who’s one year into leading a major project tells us about her aha moments. Finally, Kelsey answers the question of whether or not she’s ready to try management again.
Guest expert:
Jen Dary trains and develops managers through her coaching business, Plucky. She hosts the Be Plucky Podcast.
