Some employees are only interested in what a company can do for them. Employers value motivated individuals who steadily climb the career ladder with their sights on what they can do for the company.
The need for management professionals who demonstrate in-demand leadership qualities is on the rise. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for management occupations is projected to grow 8% from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations.1 From financial managers to human resource managers to medical and health services managers and beyond, the roles and industries are varied. But there are key steps you can take to prepare yourself as you look to begin your career, regardless of the industry you want serve. Below, we outline a few tips on how to start your career in management.
Develop time-management skills.
Managing your time effectively can be a tedious balancing act. But mastering this skill allows you to be more productive in the workplace while also setting an example for your employees and co-workers. Doing things like planning ahead, keeping a to-do list, adhering to a schedule, and setting time limits for certain tasks are all ways to improve your time management. By understanding how to best manage your own time, you can better manage organization operations and employees—which is exactly where your focus should be.
Learn how to delegate effectively.
One of the most important leadership skills you can develop is delegation. Knowing how to assign various tasks, when, and to whom not only benefits you as a manager, but also your direct reports and the organization.2 And if you’re in a position to make hires, you should screen potential candidates with delegation in mind—you want people on your team who are reliable and can take ownership of the projects and tasks you entrust them with.
Practice active listening.
Communication is key in a management position, and effective communication consists of both speaking and listening. Active listening requires dedicating your full attention to the speaker in order to truly hear and comprehend what is being said. And not only does how well you listen have an impact on your career, it also impacts the quality of your relationships with others. Practicing mindfulness and learning to limit distractions can improve your ability to focus on others as they share their thoughts and information, which allows you to provide more thoughtful feedback in return.
Continue your own development and training.
Your management training should extend beyond postsecondary education and earning your degree. It’s vital to continue your professional development so that you can stay abreast of industry best practices and evolving policies, and position yourself to advance in your career and increase your earning potential. Furthering your education, attending seminars and conferences, and participating in any on-site trainings applicable to your role will help you improve your management and leadership style. Continuing to develop your skills as a manager may even give your employees the motivation they need to improve upon their own skills.
Expand Your Career Opportunities by Earning Your Degree at Walden University
In 2018, there were 998,716 job postings in the U.S. for BS in Business Administration graduates, an increase of nearly 20% from postings in 2017.3 Organizations of all sizes are looking for qualified professionals who demonstrate proficiency in the fundamental business principles and management practices that can be applied to any industry. When you earn your business degree, you can gain the in-demand skills employers seek and broaden your career opportunities. Walden’s online BS in Business Administration—an ACBSP-accredited program—gives you access to a dynamic curriculum and the business management competencies you need to excel in any environment, from healthcare to education to government.
At Walden, an accredited university, you can earn your degree online while you continue to work full time. That means you can better maintain a work-life balance while you advance your skill set. With online learning, there’s no need to completely rearrange your schedule or commute to campus—you can take classes at whatever time of day works best for you as you earn your bachelor’s degree in business administration and jump-start your career.
Walden University is an accredited institution offering a bs in business administration online. Expand your career options and earn your degree in a convenient, flexible format that fits your busy life.
1Source: www.bls.gov/ooh/management/home.htm
2Source: https://hbr.org/2012/07/why-arent-you-delegating
3Source: Data for this analysis of job postings for professionals with a bachelor’s degree in business administration from January 1, 2017, to November 30, 2018, was retrieved using Burning Glass Technologies: Labor Insight™. Results for industry sectors and job titles are at the national level and may not reflect local and/or short-term job conditions and are subject to change.
Walden’s BS in Business Administration, Master of Business Administration (MBA), Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), and PhD in Management programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The MS in Accounting and BS in Accounting programs are also accredited by the ACBSP and have earned the organization’s Specialized Accounting Accreditation.
Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, www.hlcommission.org.