Lara Hogan, a management coach and author of 'Resilient Management,' shares her expertise on leading engineers. She discusses the essential roles of leaders, such as mentoring, coaching, and giving feedback. Lara emphasizes the power of sponsorship in professional development, especially for underrepresented groups. The importance of adaptability in leadership is highlighted, along with the psychological dynamics of workplace relationships. She also addresses the challenges engineers face in transitioning to management roles, reinforcing that effective leadership skills can be learned.
Sponsorship is more crucial than mentorship for career advancement, as it actively promotes visibility and opportunities aligned with business goals.
Effective coaching empowers individuals to explore solutions through reflective questioning, fostering critical thinking and self-reliance during personal and professional growth.
Adaptable management emphasizes tailored support for team members, prioritizing their diverse needs and promoting a collaborative environment to enhance productivity and dynamics.
Deep dives
The Importance of Sponsorship over Mentorship
Sponsorship holds more significance for career progression than mentorship. Unlike mentorship, which primarily offers advice and guidance, sponsorship actively advocates for individuals, promoting opportunities for them to engage in visible and valuable work that aligns with business goals. Research indicates that sponsorship has a direct correlation with career advancement, leading to increased visibility, stretch assignments, and recognition within organizations. This shift from mentorship to sponsorship emphasizes the need for professionals, particularly in tech, to consider where they can champion others rather than just offering advice.
Understanding the Power of Coaching
Coaching encourages individuals to explore their own solutions through open-ended questions rather than relying on the coach's knowledge. This method fosters personal growth by prompting the coachee to reflect and connect dots on their own. Effective coaching moves beyond mere advice; it focuses on developing the coachee's critical thinking and problem-solving skills, enabling them to navigate challenges independently. By empowering individuals to find their own paths, coaching nurtures autonomy and fosters more profound personal and professional development.
Feedback: A Critical Skill for Leaders
Providing effective feedback is essential, yet many struggle with delivering it constructively. Good feedback should be specific, actionable, and framed in a way that resonates with the individual receiving it, focusing on their goals rather than just the giver's perspective. Utilizing methods such as the Situation-Behavior-Impact framework helps ground feedback in objective observations, minimizing emotional responses. Closing feedback with open questions transforms a potentially confrontational conversation into a collaborative dialogue, leading to more productive outcomes.
The Evolving Role of Managers
Management is defined by the ability to support team members as they grow, which can be achieved through various styles and approaches. The concept of being a 'cog' in a larger machine versus a 'linchpin' highlights the importance of collaboration and the need for diverse leadership styles in organizations. Managers who prioritize serving their team, understanding their individual needs, and adjusting their approach based on context can significantly impact team dynamics and productivity. The essence of successful management lies in adaptability and a commitment to fostering a supportive work environment.
The Value of Network and Community
Creating a supportive network plays a crucial role in professional development, especially in leadership contexts. A managerial 'Voltron'—a collective of individuals each with unique strengths—can significantly enhance problem-solving capabilities and personal growth. Engaging with peers, sharing experiences, and seeking diverse perspectives offers valuable insights that one may not have alone. This collaborative approach ensures that managers and leaders are well-rounded and equipped to handle various challenges effectively.
Navigating Career Decisions and Transitions
When considering career transitions, it’s vital to clarify personal motivations, or what one is 'optimizing for,' before making decisions. Understanding these personal objectives can prevent dissatisfaction and misalignment when transitioning into leadership roles. Additionally, exploring opportunities to 'try on' new roles through smaller responsibilities or projects can provide valuable insights into whether a full transition is the right choice. This reflective approach enables individuals to assess their fit and readiness for leadership roles while aligning with their personal and professional aspirations.
This week we’re bringing you a remaster of our epic 2021interview with Lara Hogan – author of Resilient Management and management coach / trainer for the tech industry.
The majority of our conversation focuses on the four primary hats leaders and managers end up wearing; mentoring, coaching, sponsoring, and delivering feedback. We also talk about knowing when you’re ready to lead, empathy and compassion, and learning to lead.
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