Recently, a feature piece said there are five questions we are to ask ourselves if we want to be a manager. It suggested that questions regarding career, conflict, motivation and fairness are in order. . .and, of course, they are. Glaringly absent from the list of suggested self-inquiries, however, is the one that I consider to be the most key.
Do you want to be responsible for the workforce?
Leading others is a sacred responsibility. . .and that responsibility is to the team. Are you prepared to support the team? Are you prepared to step out in front of the team and show them the way? Are you prepared to take care each individual and nurture them to the best of your ability?
Do you care?
And you know what - if you don't, that's okay - just don't take the responsibility for the workforce. All too often in our society we come to the conclusion that the only why we can achieve career aspirations and make more money is to manage people. If you really just want to be responsible for yourself and your own personal achievements. . .that's cool. Find a job in which you can do that.
On the other side, if you get a great deal of satisfaction out of working with a team. . .
If you love collaboration. . .
If you are certain you can drive a business through group accomplishment. . .
If you are prepared to pick up the pieces after someone fails. If you can coach and counsel. If you selflessly not only share credit, but give credit. If you are able to admit failure and secure victories. If you believe in options. If you truly value diverse opinions and skill sets. If you can move forward and others willingly follow. . .
Then by all means, be a manager. Lead.
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My book "Courageous Questions, Confident Leaders" is available on Amazon Kindle.
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