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How long does it take for managers to rise to the top?
#management #business #professional
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6 answers
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Steven’s Answer
Regardless of the industry, there are few things you can do to improve your path to management. The first is ALWAYS to network. Connect with people throughout your organization - both above and below you on the organizational chart. Something as easy as scheduling a 15 minute "meet and greet" - "Hey, I just wanted to introduce myself and learn a little bit about what you do" - people are usually happy to talk about themselves! Describe your role as well if they are interested. Make sure you sincerely thank them for their time, offer that they can reach back out to you anytime, and if they do - FOLLOW THROUGH.
Also, it really helps to find someone, typically at the next level, willing to "take you under their wing" - not necessarily a mentor, but someone willing, for instance, to bring you along to meetings just to observe and learn, and willing to follow up with your questions.
Look for opportunities and make sure the right people know that you have an interest in management. Ask your manager exactly what steps you can take to ensure you are in the conversation next time a management job opens.
Know what your company values and be very good at it - is it strict performance by numbers? bringing in new business? being innovative? Find out and be the best at it. By the way, sometimes this can be sticky, if you get SO good at your job, some managers can be reluctant to move you out of that role - if that happens, move! You're not going anywhere there anyway!
Read books on what it takes to be a good leader - and notice I said leader, not manager - there is a big difference.
And lastly, from my experience, you go much farther, the more you sincerely care about others and create relationships, Be vulnerable and open. Help others shine and always be supportive of others in their own career journey.
Good luck!
Also, it really helps to find someone, typically at the next level, willing to "take you under their wing" - not necessarily a mentor, but someone willing, for instance, to bring you along to meetings just to observe and learn, and willing to follow up with your questions.
Look for opportunities and make sure the right people know that you have an interest in management. Ask your manager exactly what steps you can take to ensure you are in the conversation next time a management job opens.
Know what your company values and be very good at it - is it strict performance by numbers? bringing in new business? being innovative? Find out and be the best at it. By the way, sometimes this can be sticky, if you get SO good at your job, some managers can be reluctant to move you out of that role - if that happens, move! You're not going anywhere there anyway!
Read books on what it takes to be a good leader - and notice I said leader, not manager - there is a big difference.
And lastly, from my experience, you go much farther, the more you sincerely care about others and create relationships, Be vulnerable and open. Help others shine and always be supportive of others in their own career journey.
Good luck!
Updated
Alan’s Answer
There is no specific time frame for getting promoted since there are many variables that go into opportunities opening for advancement. There are three main ways to mangers to move ahead. A company could be growing so new jobs are created, a person higher up in the organization structure leaves the company and needs to be replaced or getting a new job the moves you closer to the top of an organization.
Since the first two ways mentioned above are out of your control, the best thing is to put yourself in the position to get promoted when the opportunity arises. One of the best ways to do that is taking on more responsibility in your current role and networking throughout the company to build relationships with hiring decision makers and influencers.
Leaving a company in order to advance your career is in your control but there are pros and cons with doing that. Pros could be higher slalary, more responsibility, more prestigious title, etc. The cons are having to start over building internal relationships, understanding a new culture and processes, etc.
Since the first two ways mentioned above are out of your control, the best thing is to put yourself in the position to get promoted when the opportunity arises. One of the best ways to do that is taking on more responsibility in your current role and networking throughout the company to build relationships with hiring decision makers and influencers.
Leaving a company in order to advance your career is in your control but there are pros and cons with doing that. Pros could be higher slalary, more responsibility, more prestigious title, etc. The cons are having to start over building internal relationships, understanding a new culture and processes, etc.
Updated
Simeon’s Answer
It really depends on the line of work/industry that you are in. One of the quickest ways is to join one of the big four accounting firms: Deloitte, KPMG, PwC, or EY. These companies put a big emphasis on growing your personal brand and pursuing your personal career goals. I've known people who hit manager in five years because they were aggressive in hitting their personal goals and were able to get great feedback from their career team. Some are even able to transfer out of audit into other industries and jump up to manager in the process.
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Jennifer’s Answer
It's a different path for everyone. For myself, I average about 2 years or so in each position. This allows me time to fully learn the current role I am in and then time to master it, before I look to move on. It also depends on how much effort and time you can put into it. There have been times in my life where work was the #1 priority and there have also been times where my family life has been the #1 priority. You have to find the balance that works for you and that balance will shift throughout your life events.
Updated
Janne’s Answer
Hi Hayden,
this would depend on the skills of the person and on the company they work for. A good way to set yourself up for success if by focusing on whether you want to become a manager or a leader, because there is a distinct difference, and your choice would likely also impact the speed and direction of your rise to the top.
Janne recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Erica’s Answer
The journey is different for everyone. You should take your time and find the right path for you and your career. No two people will have the same path, choice, and opportunities. Great luck in your pathing.