S2E1: Transitionning from Individual Contributor to Manager

summary

This conversation explores the topic of becoming a manager for the first time and provides insights and advice for both new managers and those promoting someone into a management role. The main themes include the requirements for transitioning from an individual contributor to a manager, the challenges and skills that need to be learned, and the importance of leadership in managing a team. The conversation emphasizes the need to unlearn old habits, learn new skills, and understand the difference between management and leadership. It also discusses the importance of planning work, team management, hiring and firing, and coaching and motivating team members.

takeaways

• Becoming a manager requires unlearning old habits and learning new skills.
• Management skills include planning work, team management, and setting expectations.
• Leadership skills include hiring, firing, coaching, and motivating team members.
• A successful manager focuses on the success of their team rather than individual success.

Sound Bites

• "Please attend a leadership course and take a behavioral test."
• "You need to unlearn doing things yourself and learn to let your team do them."
• "Learn how to plan work and manage a team as a first-time manager."