Why Do You Manage?
April 12, 2009 by Phil Gerbyshak
Filed under Business
I’ve been thinking for a while now about why I manage, and why I keep managing, even though it takes a lot of effort and attention. I finally found a quote that makes sense to me:
“A manager should regard his position as one that gives him a splendid opportunity to render assistance.” – Thomas Watson
As a manager, I get the opportunity to help a lot of people. Sure, not everyone wants (or needs) my help, but those who do, I am in a great position to help. I get to use every resource I have to find the answers to the tough questions my team and my customers have.
I love to help folks do more, achieve more, believe more.
It’s why I got started writing articles on a blog over 4 years ago, and why I am able to keep writing articles at Slacker Manager for you. 30 articles a month is tough to keep up with, but because I love to render assistance, and because at least a few folks leave comments here from time to time, I’ll keep writing as long as I can.
As the lead writer/editor of Slacker Manager, I am in a unique position that I can impact many more folks than I could as a manager. But still, I keep doing what I do during the day. I lead a group of 10 amazing individuals who do great things for our firm. It’s truly amazing for me, and quite a blessing. I love serving my team and my customers.
I’m curious…why do YOU manage?
I’d love if you’d leave a comment and let me know (anonymously if you want, just put in a pretend e-mail address). I’d also love it if you took some time this week and dug deep and found out why you do what you do, whether you’re a manager or not. If you don’t love it, are you doing it just to get by, to make due, until something better comes along? Dig deep and understand WHY you’re doing what you do.
And make it a GREAT week!
drama lighting 1 courtesy of independent man
In my experience, seasoned managers realize they don’t know everything, and they are comfortable with that. New managers, on the other hand, are afraid to admit it and walk around wearing the Mask of Expert. Of course they live in fear of someone ripping the mask off, which adds needlessly to their stress levels.
As Scott said in his comment, there are lots of books and other ways to find out things you need to know — and I would add that you shouldn’t forget the wealth of information already in the heads of those on your team!
Helen Wilkie
Official Guide for The Manager’s Journey
I just got hired as a manager at a retail company only then to find out that the assistant manager applied for the job -then I learn that I may be walking into a store that has no employees….
I have worked in retail for a long time- but for private little shops
Any suggestions
Great point Helen! My takeaway: the sooner you ask for help, the sooner you can turn the corner and win!