Those who work with me often say that my work is impactful – and makes a difference to their lives. Others ask how I managed to get myself such a fantastic role.
There are two parts to the answer to that question.
- I created this role for myself. I will post more on how I did that another time.
- My manager was crucial for all the successes and achievements I have had in this role.
Let me explain.
- Sometimes, you have managers who are so focused and committed to getting the work done, that that’s all they prioritise.
- Some managers don’t like to see team members get involved with passion projects – because it means they are not working on what they are ostensibly paid to achieve.
- Other managers will discourage teams from trying out new things – because they see it as a distraction and not important. Or they are afraid of the impression this may create.
But then, you have managers who are true people leaders and coaches, and who will work with you to ensure you have every opportunity to succeed.
These rare managers:
- Understand the organisation’s strategy and can contextualise your goals around that strategy
- Set up the environment for success, and then get out of the way of the person – so they can bring their best self to work
- Encourage questions and allow challenging questions to be surfaced
- Ensure that 1:1s are regularly scheduled and do not change
- Ensure that the 1:1 session focuses on the development of the person, and not just a status update
- Ask what you want to achieve or the skills you want to develop. They then aim to make this happen for you.
- Have your back – you know what they will say about you when you are not in the room.
And so when I talk about my achievements at work, I credit my manager @Patrick Bradley – not only because he got out my way and enabled me to succeed, but also because:
- He does not take himself too seriously
- He always has time for a laugh
- He raises good points and suggestions to make my work better.
- He just gets me.
Thank you, Patrick!
So friends – what’s the best thing about your manager (assuming you have a nice manager 😊😊 )
#leadership #management #coaching #teamnbn