Should You Become a Manager?
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"Should I become a manager?" As a mentor, I've been frequently asked this question. The curiosity is often fueled by an eagerness to grow and a desire to make a difference, but not everyone is cut out for managerial roles. So, how can one determine if they should pursue this path? In my experience, there are three essential traits that set managers apart from individual contributors, including tech leads. Firstly, one must harbor an ambition to deliver bigger and grander results, a desire that necessitates delegation to others. Managers, unlike individual contributors, are equipped with an array of resources they can utilize to accomplish greater things. They possess the authority to make critical decisions, and this autonomy can empower them to achieve significant results. So, if you are driven by the motivation to effect substantial changes and deliver sizable outcomes, you might consider steering your career towards management. Secondly, one should derive genuine satisfaction from nurturing the growth of others. A good manager not only delegates tasks but also invests in the development of their team. Whether it involves providing coaching, creating opportunities, or simply knowing when to step back and let individuals navigate their own paths, the ability to appreciate and facilitate others' growth is a key managerial attribute. Thus, if you feel a sense of accomplishment when helping others advance and thrive, managerial roles could be your calling. Lastly, managers should possess a willingness to accept and navigate life's inherent ambiguities. Perfection is a myth; the reality of life and work is far more sophisticated, full of gray areas. Rather than allowing these uncertainties to create chaos, managers should view them as opportunities for creativity, exploration, and problem-solving. Acceptance of this complex reality, paired with a belief that there is no light without darkness, is crucial for effective management. Therefore, if you enjoy the challenge of uncertainty and find satisfaction in exploring the unknown, not only in technology but also in human relationships, a managerial role might be the right fit for you. Not everyone is suited for management. It requires a specific blend of ambition, an appreciation for developing others, and an ability to thrive amid ambiguity. If these traits resonate with you, then pursuing a managerial path might not just be an option, but a fulfilling and exciting journey. There are so few good managers out there. If you have the right qualities, become one. Don’t let the bad ones take over. It is our responsibility to make the world slightly better when we leave than the world we entered. Who knows…maybe it is your true calling to do it by wearing a manager’s hat!