Management 101

Management Expectations and Basics

What to Expect from a Manager

You should expect a manager to care about you as a person and actively help in your career growth through valuable feedback and guidance. Managers should:

  • Facilitate your focus on important tasks.
  • Provide regular and meaningful one-on-one meetings.
  • Deliver timely and constructive feedback.
  • Assist in navigating workplace and career challenges.

One-on-One Meetings (1-1s)

1-1s are crucial for maintaining a good working relationship. They serve dual purposes:

  1. Building Human Connection: Helps in understanding personal circumstances which might affect work.
  2. Discussion Platform: Presents an opportunity to discuss work-related issues, plan, and feedback privately.

Feedback and Workplace Guidance

Feedback should be timely and constructive, focusing on both praises and areas for improvement. Good managers address issues swiftly and provide support in preparing for promotions or handling workplace conflicts.

Training and Career Growth

Managers should help identify resources for professional development and growth. While the responsibility for career advancement largely rests on the individual, a manager’s support in navigating the company’s promotion process is essential.

How to Be Managed

Personal Responsibility in Management

Understanding how to be managed effectively involves:

  • Being proactive in 1-1s and bringing up topics for discussion.
  • Seeking feedback actively and using it constructively.
  • Advocating for personal needs and career advancements assertively.

Understanding Managerial Roles

Managers aim to balance the well-being of their team with the company’s goals. Effective self-management includes providing solutions, not just problems, and seeking advice rather than direct intervention.

Choosing Managers

The choice of manager can significantly impact your career trajectory. It’s beneficial to work under managers who can mentor and open career opportunities through their influence and network.

Assessing Your Own Experience

Evaluate your management experience by considering:

  • The quality and frequency of interactions with your manager.
  • The type of feedback received.
  • Support in career development.

Reflecting on these aspects can help in optimizing the manager-report relationship and setting clearer career goals.