What Training do I need to Succeed?
Managers are needed in every workplace.
In a small workplace, a manager may need to manage everything from manpower and equipment to finance, marketing and production.
In large workplaces, a hierarchy of managers will usually be developed where upper level managers manage lower level managers. Here a workplace may be broken up into sections or departments with different managers each having different areas of responsibility. For example: A marketing manager may work under the direction of a general manager, and he may control a series of lower level managers such as a Sales Manager and an Advertising/PR manager.
Managers are employed in small and big business, in non profit and charity organisations, and in government departments.
In small business, top level managers are often the business owners.
In larger organisations, managers may find their way into a management job either of two ways:
1. Starting with the organisation in a low level job, and being promoted through the organisation.
OR
2. Being employed into a management position from outside the organisation
“Individuals and managers should understand what is needed in a job, how needs change and prepare for changes before they occur, as much as is possible.”
People find their way into managerial roles via many different routes.
Many become managers accidentally or out of necessity without having ever considered the prospect of being a manager, while others train in management and pursue an intended goal of becoming a manager.
Studying management, formally or informally, is advantageous, but studies alone will never guarantee success in a management career.
If you want to give yourself the best chance of success as a manager and maintain your prospects throughout life, you need to continually work on developing skills, awareness, understanding, attitude, contacts and other attributes relevant to the job.
- Avoid becoming complacent – recognise that the world keeps changing and you never stop learning or developing as a manager
- Work hard at networking – it is important to be connected with colleagues, suppliers, customers and employees; not only for the business opportunities they might bring, but also in order to remain aware of trends and developments so you can change your approach to anything and everything at the appropriate time.
- Know yourself – your personality strengths and weaknesses can have a significant impact upon your success as a manager. Everyone has weaknesses, and if you cannot see that, this could be a problem when others see your weaknesses.