Moving from team member to manager is a big change. Yet wherever you work in the University, you likely know what a 'good' manager is like. Use your experience to decide how you want to lead others.
How to be an effective manager
An effective manager is likely to:
- create an environment that optimises the well-being of themselves and others, by enabling individuals and the team to do their job well
- commit time to planning and managing individuals, the team and the workload
- review and make plans with individuals that include clear work objectives and opportunities for development
- ensure regular and constructive feedback in order to recognise and sustain effective performance and behaviour, and support development
- use regular 1 to 1 meetings, team meetings and other opportunities to encourage input, collaboration and good communication
- demonstrate skills to identify and solve problems objectively, and make decisions that are fair and justified
- manage challenges or conflict with a timely, consistent and supportive approach
- recruit well to appoint the best person for a role, plan induction and probation activities to ensure a positive and productive start and to build strong working relationships with others in the team
- lead by example, celebrate successes and learn from mistakes
- understand your role in supporting change for individuals and the team collectively
- build trust, motivate and support growing independence as skills, knowledge and experience increase
- take responsibility for developing their own skills, knowledge and experience in this area
- role model behaviour that is respectful, professional and supports a positive atmosphere
See also the Leadership and Management Guidelines (pdf).
Develop your skills
- Reflect on daily experiences to understand what works and what doesn’t.
- Learn from and with colleagues.
- Take relevant courses.
Leadership and management training
Plus:
- A Coaching Approach Using The GROW Model (bitesize resource)
- Being An Active Bystander
- Coaching Skills for Managers
- Effective Staff Review And Development online
- Giving Effective Feedback online
- Leadership and Management Essentials LinkedIn Learning pathway
- Leadership and Management Guidelines(pdf)
- Leading Your Team Through Change online
- PIs: Working Effectively With Your Postdoc
- Using Leadership Styles Effectively podcast
More leadership and management development options on the University Training Booking System.
Visit the apprenticeships website for information about qualifications.
Join networks to stay informed
More development suggestions
- Discuss this part of your job with your manager in your 1:1s.
- Learn from other managers and colleagues to share good practice.
- Look for a mentor to support you, see Self-Match Mentoring (SharePoint).
- Use resources from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) website.
- Read books, articles and websites that support your learning.
- Consider working towards a qualification, like an Apprenticeship in Leadership (apprenticeships website).
Stay interested in developing this part of your role. Creating a positive environment is essential for you and your team's wellbeing.