I've been granted my first management role - in an acting position for 7 weeks, and in a department outside my experience as an individual contributor.
I've not seen a discussion thread elsewhere about short term assignments. As it's my first opportunity to test the MT techniques, I've immediately started 03's and Effective Meeting Protocols.
I'm keen to make a good impression on both my temporary team and my temporary boss, but I'm conscious that I'm really just minding the store until the "real" manager returns from leave and am reluctant to do anything that might disrupt her return.
Has anyone else been in this situation? What worked for you?
ebn305
1,5,5,7 (Practitioner)
I get to be in an "acting"
I get to be in an "acting" role at least 6 weeks per year, usually at least 2-3 consecutive. My advice is two-fold:
1. Realize this is a 7 week long job interview. You need to be at the top of your game every single day. Dress appropriately, keep a clean desk, use Manager Tools guidance. Do NOT give negative feedback. Take as much from it as you can, learning the basics. Network, have lunch with other senior people, don't be afraid to ask for help.
2. Document your every move & decision. This isn't to protect you - it is to help the manager on leave. Keep a running journal (you pare it down a day before she gets back to something managable) of what you do/encounter/decide upon/etc This allows the MOL to seamlessly step back into her role, makes you look incredibly organized & competent and protects her from a seemingly minor incident from becoming a major issue because she didn't know it happened. Don't assume you *know* what will be important to her.
Keep her desk tidy as much as possible, there's nothing worse than coming back to a desk that is so covered in paper you can't see the top.
Enjoy the experience also!
Good idea
Aca - thanks for your insights. So far, so good. I've held back on the negative feedback (it's not easy some days!) and through 03's have been getting a handle on people and product dynamics. I haven't documented every move and decision, but I have good 03 notes and there is already a practice of detailed meeting notes that will be helpful.
Good advice. Thanks again.
I've had experience of this
I've had experience of this (it is so valuable!) and you will learn so much from it. In my opinion your there to keep things running to perfection, help resolve issues when required and not to change the world. Enjoy your time in the chair and don't give anyone a reason to plug it in ;)
Regards,
Gareth
Preparation
A couple thoughts:
1) Use your staff extensively to learn about their opportunities and challenges -- especially since this is a new department for you.
2) When things go right it is "we". When they go wrong it is "I" -- and "this is what is being done to solve the problem."
3) You will probably have to opportunity to represent the department in meetings. Go in prepared. Use your staff to be prepared.
4) Use this opportunity to network with your peers at the department head level. Very valuable opportunity.
5) You may have to make "long term" decisions. Be very thoughtful and inclusive when doing so. You may not have to live with it but others will have to.
6) Don't "do the moth" and fly toward the bright an shiny things to the (shameless) exclusion of your staff. You are in a higher visibility role and it can be a heady experience on its own.
7) It's a little like poker, if you look around the table and cannot find the least experienced/knowledgeable person there, then it is likely you (you can use #3 to make up for some of it). Be measured and work hard to understand the context of the discussions before jumping in head first.
Best wishes. Acting assignments are fun and you can learn a lot.