Factors influencing the successful transition from managing self to managing others

Abstract

The literature shows that one of the biggest transitions in career growth is the step-up from managing self to managing others. The difficulty of this complex transition is attributed to the complexity of managing others, of learning new skills, and understanding the need to invest one’s efforts in managing others rather than their personal deliverables. The transition affects and is affected by a range of stakeholders. The experience of going through this transition is under-reported in the literature. This research aimed to understand the challenges faced and the factors influencing a positive transition through the experiences of recently appointed first-time managers. A qualitative study comprised of 13 semi-structured in-depth interviews with first-time managers who had recently gone through this transition. The analysis identified commonalities, themes and key insights that can assist individuals and organisations in finding ways to positively influence the transition. The results indicate the multiplicity of factors that influence this transition. The first-time manager learns best by doing but needs individual support from their line manager. The outcome from this research offers a model that illustrates how both individuals and organisations can overcome the hurdles and challenges faced when transiting from managing self to managing others.