[closed] How far in advance do you plan for employee activities when managing them?

Hi Aimee! I noticed you had other similar questions as this so let me see if I can answer them collectively. There are various levels of management and that number can change dependent on size, number of locations, products or services offered. I have been involved in the training, hiring, firing, talent and leadership identification and organizational change consulting as well as, the coaching of all levels of employee's blue collar to CEO's for small to major international corporations. I say this not to impress as much as establish some credibility. Most of the issues you are bringing up would fall more under leadership skills and mindset and less under the role of manager. Managers are more strategic and focus more on "if the vision and mission of the organization are being implemented efficiently, competently, ethically and cost effectively. Many of the tactical day to day jobs are more office manager roles, accounting roles, sales and marketing roles with sales managers, marketing managers, foreman, supervisors, department heads and numerous other functions, roles and titles. So in some smaller companies one person might fill multiple role positions and in others just one. Leading others is way different then manipulating and controlling others, as is inspiring vs motivating people. My sense is that being an employee 1st gives you a frame of reference for what works for you and feeling of how you like to be treated as an employee and then as you rise in levels of responsibility you bring that understanding into your interaction with how you treat others. Dale Carnegie's book How To Win Friends and Influence People might be a great primer for gaining that perspective. One of your questions was "As part of being a planner and efficient, I like to accomplish assignments as soon as possible. However, there is such a things working too far ahead. How much of a time notice would I give employees to complete an assignment so that it is reasonable and fair?" My thought is that your question is the kind of question that probably has an at the time of task or assignment being assigned a time frame for work to be done or an ending deadline which may include work to be integrated with other depts that establishes that date. There is no one answer for many of your questions which places more emphasis on being flexible, more self aware, more willing and trustworthy as you evolve up the promotional ladder with less concern on the tactics of how to to do it and more emphasis on people and communication skills. The main thing is to bring enthusiasm, compassion and joy to work everyday and eagerly share it with others. It is very contagious. The best to you on your new journey. May it bring out your best! Paul