Becoming a top-notch manager in the STEM fields takes a unique mixture of skills. Technical smarts, business acumen, as well as excellent verbal and written communication skills are a must. Handling budgets and project schedules while simultaneously watching over a collection of talented technology professionals can keep you up late at night.
If you are interested in fine-tuning your managerial ability, here are five tips worth checking out. Lead your team to its best year yet, and maybe the corner office will soon be yours.
Keep an Open Mind for New Ideas and Innovations
Successful technology managers need to be flexible and open-minded as new ideas and technical innovations happen regularly. This includes everything from the latest programming languages and database engines to new methodologies like DevOps. Never let yourself become complacent and your skill set obsolete.
Set Clear Expectations and Goals for Your Team
Your direct reports need to have a clear understanding of their goals. Make it a point to communicate your expectations in a detailed manner. Meet one-on-one throughout the year to ensure things remain on track, while providing meaningful real-time feedback as necessary.
Fine-Tune Your Verbal Communication Skills
In this collaborative era of Agile and DevOps in IT, excellent verbal communication ability is vital. Even if your writing skills are top-notch, consider joining a local Toastmasters chapter to take your speaking capabilities to the next level. This helps immensely when meeting with clients as well as your own staff.
Manage Your Own Time Wisely
When managing others, it is also important to manage yourself — especially your time — wisely. Set your schedule at the beginning of each week, and protect it, even if it means delegating a task to a trusted team member. Rushed work isn’t quality work.
Hire the Best Technology Talent
Building a talented and productive technology team definitely enhances the perception of your managerial skills. When a position on your staff becomes available, make it a point to hire the best and brightest. Brush up on your interviewing skills and work with a trusted IT staffing partner to ensure you select the top candidates.
When searching for a top-notch technology and scientific recruiter, look no further than Synerfac. As one of the top STEM staffing agencies in Philadelphia and the East Coast, we offer the business insight and great candidates able to contribute to your organization’s success. Contact us today to learn more!
