In this insightful discussion, Ellen Van Oosten, a professor at the Weatherhead School of Management, shines a light on the intricacies of stepping into management. She tackles the dilemma of accepting a managerial role when it's not desired and offers solutions for overcoming barriers to promotion. Ellen emphasizes that management isn't an inherent trait but a skill that can be developed. Providing practical advice, she shares strategies for navigating career transitions, especially later in life, and the importance of open communication in family business dynamics.
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Quick takeaways
Effective management is a skill that can be cultivated through intention and effort, rather than an innate quality.
Open communication about career aspirations and role expectations is essential for addressing challenges in managerial transitions and growth.
Deep dives
Management Material Can Be Developed
The concept of being 'management material' is often misunderstood, as many believe it is an innate quality rather than a skill that can be cultivated. Effective management is primarily about connecting with people and leading them toward a common goal. Research indicates that management abilities are not limited to a select few but can be developed through intention and effort. This perspective offers encouragement to those who might doubt their capabilities in pursuing management roles.
Navigating Reluctance to Accept Managerial Roles
Many individuals find themselves in positions where they are urged to take on managerial roles despite personal misgivings. It is essential to explore all available options beyond a simple yes or no, such as suggesting a limited tenure or redesigning the role to make it more enjoyable. Conversations with colleagues can help clarify objectives and potentially redistribute responsibilities to create a more palatable experience for future managers. This approach emphasizes the importance of communication in addressing mutual concerns and improving the managerial landscape.
Overcoming Age Discrimination in Career Progression
Professionals seeking advancement may grapple with age-related concerns, especially in competitive job markets. However, experience and a mature perspective can provide significant advantages that younger candidates may lack. Focusing on transferable skills and networking can open doors to new opportunities while leveraging existing strengths. Emphasizing personal growth and continuous learning reinforces one’s candidacy and counters age-related biases often encountered in the workforce.
Challenges in Family Business Dynamics
Working within a family-owned business can present unique challenges, especially when familial relationships complicate professional advancements. Personal dynamics, along with potential financial incentives that hinder promotions, create a complex environment for career growth. Engaging in open discussions about the future of the business and one’s aspirations can help navigate these issues. However, if progress remains stymied despite sustained efforts, exploring opportunities outside the organization becomes a vital consideration for professional fulfillment.
In this episode, Ellen Van Oosten answers questions from listeners who are struggling to move into management. She offers advice for what to do when you’ve been tapped for a managerial role, but you don’t want the job. She also discusses how to respond if your supervisor is blocking you from earning a promotion into management, and how you can make the move to manager even if you only have informal management experience.
Key episode topics include: leadership, careers, career transitions, managing people,
coaching, growth.
HBR On Leadership curates the best case studies and conversations with the world’s top business and management experts, to help you unlock the best in those around you. New episodes every week.