When you’re hiring a new manager, the stakes are high. You need someone who can effectively lead people, manage a budget, liaise with upper management — and, usually, do it all from day one. But what if a potential hire doesn’t yet have a track record in doing all of the above? Would you hire or promote a star player into a management role if they’ve never managed anyone? To gain some perspective on how to handle this kind of challenge, I reached out to some management experts for their point of view on the skills and personalities to look for.
How to Know If Someone Is Ready to Be a Manager
Questions to ask.
June 02, 2016
Summary.
You have a star performer whom you think is ready for managerial role. The problem is, however, that they’ve never been a manager before. How do you know they’re truly right for the job?
First off, make sure the candidate understands the what it means to be a manager and how that relates to their team in particular. You don’t want a micro manager or someone who doesn’t trust their direct reports. Next, determine that they have the components of emotional intelligence such as empathy and self-knowledge in order to understand the constraints of their team and organization. Finally, once you decide to give the promotion, make sure you provide the individual with the tools they need to succeed.
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New!
HBR Learning
Developing Employees Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Developing Employees. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Support and challenge your direct reports to help them reach their potential.