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Why Middle Managers Struggle—And How to Set Them Up for Success
Manage episode 480903735 series 2928679
The shift from managing individual contributors to overseeing other managers is one of the toughest transitions in leadership. Chris Williams, former Microsoft HR VP, explores why this change is so challenging and how organizations can better support these key leaders.
Chris dives into the unique struggles faced by second-level managers, including finding mentorship and translating vague strategic objectives into actionable plans. He emphasizes the importance of building influence across organizational boundaries through genuine connections with colleagues, which proves invaluable during tough decisions. This episode offers practical advice for those navigating this difficult leadership transition.
Related Links:
- Join the People Managing People community forum
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Chris on LinkedIn
- Check out Chris’ website
Chapters
1. Why Middle Managers Struggle—And How to Set Them Up for Success (00:00:00)
2. Evaluating Leadership Coaches (00:01:25)
3. Supporting Second Level Managers (00:02:53)
4. Effective Training for Mid-Level Managers (00:07:18)
5. The Challenge of Middle Management (00:09:09)
6. Navigating the Shift to Senior Management (00:11:35)
7. Moving Beyond Generational Stereotypes (00:14:00)
8. Importance of Cross-Functional Relationships (00:17:53)
9. Navigating Return to Office Orders (00:22:31)
136 episodes
Manage episode 480903735 series 2928679
The shift from managing individual contributors to overseeing other managers is one of the toughest transitions in leadership. Chris Williams, former Microsoft HR VP, explores why this change is so challenging and how organizations can better support these key leaders.
Chris dives into the unique struggles faced by second-level managers, including finding mentorship and translating vague strategic objectives into actionable plans. He emphasizes the importance of building influence across organizational boundaries through genuine connections with colleagues, which proves invaluable during tough decisions. This episode offers practical advice for those navigating this difficult leadership transition.
Related Links:
- Join the People Managing People community forum
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Chris on LinkedIn
- Check out Chris’ website
Chapters
1. Why Middle Managers Struggle—And How to Set Them Up for Success (00:00:00)
2. Evaluating Leadership Coaches (00:01:25)
3. Supporting Second Level Managers (00:02:53)
4. Effective Training for Mid-Level Managers (00:07:18)
5. The Challenge of Middle Management (00:09:09)
6. Navigating the Shift to Senior Management (00:11:35)
7. Moving Beyond Generational Stereotypes (00:14:00)
8. Importance of Cross-Functional Relationships (00:17:53)
9. Navigating Return to Office Orders (00:22:31)
136 episodes
All episodes
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