The Role of a Manager Has to Change in 5 Key Ways

Articlehbr.orgApril 9, 2021

AI Summary

The role of a manager must evolve to foster a more empowering team environment, shifting from a command-control style to one that encourages innovation and inclusivity. Managers should transition from directive to instructive leadership, promoting knowledge and experimentation among team members. For instance, repetitive tasks that can be automated should be replaced by opportunities for learning and growth. Key points include: - Directive to Instructive: Encourage knowledge extension and experimentation instead of relying on repetitive tasks that can be automated. - Restrictive to Expansive: Move away from micromanagement; involve teams in decision-making to enhance their judgment. - Exclusive to Inclusive: Incorporate diverse perspectives in decision-making to enrich problem-solving and generate alternative solutions. - Repetitive to Innovative: Allow space for innovation and experimentation to avoid stagnation in predictable processes. - Problem Solver to Challenger: Shift focus from merely addressing immediate issues to proactively uncovering underlying problems and solutions. - Employer to Entrepreneur: Cultivate a mindset of risk-taking and customer focus to drive innovation and organizational survival.

Why It Matters for Leaders

This article matters for Engineering Leaders as it addresses the need to shift from traditional command-control management styles to more empowering and innovative approaches, which can enhance team engagement and creativity. An actionable takeaway is to encourage team involvement in decision-making processes, fostering an inclusive environment that leads to better problem-solving and innovation.

Category

People Management

Target Audience

Engineering ManagerDirector of EngineeringCTO / VP Engineering

Tags

Leadership TransitionMotivationTeam CultureDiversity & InclusionCoaching
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