How to Transition from Technical to Management Roles?

In today’s post, we highlight the excerpts from the TGV episode #82, the conversation with Harsha Bellur, a versatile & dynamic leader.

Firstly let’s explore CQ — The Curiosity Quotient(CQ) has become more important than ever to succeed in today’s dynamic world. Your curiosity leads your growth:

Why Curiosity is important?

1. leads to a better understanding of issues and opportunities.

2. leads to continuous learning and learning leads to engagement which can build relationships.

3. is the key to leading in any role.

4. It is the force that pushes one towards growth.

5. leads to shaping a career.

Now, let’s jump into the core of today’s topic.

A question that revolves in every Graduate’s mind — Who should prefer Technical Roles & continue pursuing a Technical path?

1. Requires more depth of knowledge of technology.

2. Constantly upgrading your skills.

3. Continuous learning of technical (and people skills too).

4. Explore and pursue technology trends.

Who should prefer management roles?

1. Requires more breadth of knowledge than depth, broader understanding of business, and functions.

2. Leading & coaching teams.

3. Comfortable negotiating & navigating organizational politics.

4. Responsibility comes with power & position.

5. Level of Credibility.

6. Even though not an expert, a Good knowledge of the domain is necessary.

How do we succeed in Technical roles?

1. Be good at core skills.

2. Try and expand to the periphery of your core skill.

Analogy: Draw the concentric circles, the inner circle is the core skill, and draw another circle in the periphery. If you are a developer your core skill is Java or Python, then your peripheral skill could be QA, Analyst, or Business Analyst.

3. Expand the technical breadth.

4. Become master of one and jack of many.

5. There is no singular path to grow on the technical ladder. Be versatile.

6. Organizations prefer people who bring versatile skills to the table. Expand your peripheral skills.

How does one succeed in Management roles?

1. Like any sport you are the coach who does not play necessarily but is always accountable for the win or loss of the team.

2. Understand the capabilities of the team.

3. Build trust.

4. Understand the strength & weaknesses of the team.

5. It is an influencer role.

6. Establish a vision.

7. Inspire the team to deliver results.

“If your actions inspire others to dream, learn, do more, and become more, you are a leader.”

~John Quincy Adams

“Don’ts” for Techies in their careers or professional life:

1. Do not get complacent.

2. Know about the latest & greatest.

3. Do not approach your work as a job only for a monthly paycheck. Be more engaged in what you are doing and enjoy the process.

4. Do not make life work but balance it with your personal life.

5. Do not miss opportunities when they knock at the door.

6. Do not be afraid of risks, take risks, and things will work out eventually.

Tips for those aspiring to MAKE BIG in their CAREER

1. Do not try to chase anything which does not make you enjoy it.

2. What drives you, enjoy the process, and be patient with the results.

3. Focus on the present and results will follow.

has over two decades of experience in industries including technology consulting, retail, manufacturing, leisure/entertainment, and food service. Throughout his career, he has championed innovation with a focus on the customer, and customer experience that has gained industry recognition.

Thanks for reading!

Please feel free to share with us your experiences of how to transition from Technology to management roles.

Do not forget to share your suggestions or feedback at theguidingvoice4u@gmail.com or by messaging at +91 9494 587 187.

Originally published at https://www.linkedin.com.