Making of a (TA) Manager: What I learnt after moving to the Dark Side

After a crisis of confidence and a failing engagement score, I learned the most important management lesson: it's not about you anymore.

#1about 2 minutes

The personal journey from IC to a first-time manager

A personal account of transitioning from a successful individual contributor to a leadership role in talent acquisition.

#2about 4 minutes

The initial shock of becoming a new team manager

Managing a large team for the first time reveals unexpected challenges like stakeholder pressure and a lack of leadership support.

#3about 5 minutes

Navigating the middle manager sandwich of expectations

Middle managers must balance team needs for autonomy and support with upper management's demands for delivery and positive messaging.

#4about 5 minutes

Facing a crisis of confidence with low engagement scores

Discovering low team engagement and morale through an employee survey leads to a difficult but necessary leadership feedback workshop.

#5about 3 minutes

How acting on feedback dramatically improved team engagement

Implementing specific changes based on team feedback, such as increased delegation and transparency, resulted in a 22-point jump in engagement scores.

#6about 4 minutes

Redefining success and winning as a people manager

A manager's success shifts from personal accolades to enabling team members to succeed and be recognized for their work.

#7about 3 minutes

Practical advice and resources for aspiring managers

Prepare for a leadership role by seeking more responsibility, finding internal and external mentors, and continuously learning from others' experiences.

#8about 3 minutes