Managers Suffer From Island Fever

I love visiting Hawaii, but I could never live there.

There’s something about being trapped on an island where if something went down, you’re done.

Maybe that’s just me, but this analogy works for managers.

Most managers choose to go-it-alone.

The amount of times I’ve heard “I got this” or someone telling them “you’ll figure it out” makes me 🤦🏻‍♂️

I’m all for becoming independent, but not asking for help is a death sentence ☠️

In life, bad habits are hard to break.

That is applicable to management.

Since I’m a guy I can admit it’s hard to ask for help.

It makes you feel weak, lacking confidence or out of your league.

But remember when transitioning from individual contributor to supervisor the skills that got you promoted won’t serve you in your next role.

Start with emotional intelligence, leadership and conflict resolution just to name a few.

As a leader, you are NOT going to learn those in isolation.

In fact, I’m an advocate for being a part of manager communities - just for the pure fact of support (managers can relate regardless of the industry).

The next best thing is connecting with other managers, simply to problem solve.

Most companies are NOT set up with internal manager training programs.

In theory this falls under HR, but it’s never going to be at the top of their priority list.

Therefore as a manager you have two options (well, technically three):

1. Find a mentor who can show you the ropes and hopefully avoid mistakes before they happen.

2. Ask your company to hire someone external to provide manager training (like me).

3. Do nothing and continue to struggle.

Assuming you actually care about getting better as leader you really only have options 1 and 2.

Working with mangers over the years, hiring an external coach is the best option because there’s built-in accountability.

When you know someone is going to meet with you on a consistent basis, it’s more effective than reaching out to a mentor when you need help.

• Imagine being throw in the ocean having to tread water on your own.

• Having a coach/mentor for guidance is like being thrown a life raft to float.

• Managing people is too dynamic of a job to do alone.

Being a manager is the most challenging and least trained role you’ll ever experience in your career.

So if you’re currently feeling overwhelmed as a leader, forward this article to your HR department or the higher ups.

Companies who are proactive with investing in manager training see the following impact.

In a recent study, running first-time managers through a leadership development program offered a 29% ROI in the first 3 months, and a 415% annualized ROI. This means that the business made $4.15 for every $1 spent on training (Training Industry Magazine)

Now am I speaking your decision maker’s language?

Manager training is NOT a luxury - it’s a necessity (if you actually care about employee turnover/retention)

Now is a great time to invest in your future leaders of your company.

All you need is to reply to this email and help is on your way.

God Bless,

Scott

P.S. Here are some of the soft skills I teach leaders at companies like yours👇