The Managers we all had and will not forget
Throughout our careers we’ll have managers that we love (or will love) and managers that…didn’t quite meet the mark. For better or worse, our managers can make a lasting impact on us. Check out these common archetypes for managers we all have heard about, and how you can navigate!
1. The one you are not on the same page with
Imagine you can’t see eye to eye with your new manager. You never seem to agree on tasks, deliverables, expectations, etc. You start to resent them and they do the same to you. In order to address this issue, it’s time to have an honest conversation. Being able to have a professional conversation about what the reason for the disconnect between you both will help address any friction moving forward. Finding a common interest or value between you and your manager will also help soften the relationship. Don’t hesitate to reach out to HR for guidance here!
2. The one who is too busy to manage you
It’s hard to get in touch with them. Their calendars are booked by the minute each day. Your 1:1s are often cut short because of another commitment. Their meetings before always runs over which shortens the time together. Overall, you don’t feel supported. There is no direction or any “managing” of you going on. What to do? I suggest that you have a conversation about your expectations around their leadership and how much time they spend (or lack thereof) managing you. If they are absolutely not able to make you a priority then it’s time to request a new manager. It might also be time to find a position somewhere else so you have the proper support in your career.
3. The Non-Advocate
You have had this manager close to a year and you don’t feel like you are being “seen.” You are up for a promotion, and you can sense they are not advocating for you the way you deserve. After all, they have seen all your contributions, all the energy you have expended. But, often times, managers can have tunnel vision.They don’t clearly see the full scope of all your hard work. While some managers are great at helping their direct reports prepare for their future, in this situation you really have to put your wins on display. Like literally, put it in a Powerpoint presentation. If that fails? Girl, you need to move on. #Next
4. The First-Timer
This is the novice manager. They recently moved up in their position and now they get to manage you. And…they’re not really killing it when it comes to what you need. This is a great time to practice “managing up.” If they don’t set up weekly time with you, discuss expectations, or ask about your career goals, YOU need to step up. Dedicate time in your 1:1 meetings (which are hopefully happening weekly) to make sure your expectations and goals are heard. Bringing up what kind of management style works for you and how you like to receive feedback would also be great to share. Don’t be too hard on this. One day, you’ll be in their shoes! If things are really rocky, let their manager know so they can help find a resolution.
5. The one everyone is afraid of
They always look like they’re in a bad mood. They give the most direct and harsh feedback. You can feel their negative energy a mile away. Can you picture the type of manager I’m talking about? Nine times out of ten, this is JUST a tough exterior. Once you get a deeper relationship with them, they could end up becoming one of the best managers you’ve ever had! On the other hand though, if their management style (which is basically like their entire personality) is not vibing with you, another manager may be more appropriate for your growth.
Often times it can feel like these are the only managers we seem to keep getting, but I promise you there are lots of wonderful and good intentioned managers out there. Managers can sometimes be a huge point of frustration in your daily life, so remember to have self-compassion working through any rough patches. When it comes time for you to step into management, think about what’s worked for you and be open to how others would like to be managed.
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Written by: Norhan Ahmed
Edited by: Shaunah Margaret