Unit 1 Understanding the Management Role
Larger organisations have multiple layers of management roles. Expectations, responsibilities and challenges will differ for each level of the management hierarchy. This first unit introduces participants to structures, processes and personal skills which relate to management levels they are likely to encounter. The focus is on managers who will have responsibility for staff and operations, for example leading a research group.
The first day of this unit examines the organisational context of managers, and strategies for success in these positions. The second day focuses on the manager as an individual, their actions, skills and behaviours, and in particular their abilities as a communicator. You will have the opportunity to complete an occupational personality questionnaire to indicate your preferred workplace behaviours and how this might relate to operating as a leader or manager. You will be encouraged to develop your own personal development plan.
This unit consists of two one-day workshops plus directed reading, use of self-assessment tools, and personal development planning. Course participants will begin to create an online community by sharing reflections using the dedicated online forum.
Day 1 – Organisations, Management Roles and Functions
Aim: To introduce the organisational context for management and the range of factors impacting on the manager role.
Specific Objectives: By the end of the session those attending will be able to:
- Identify the range of organisational forms and structures that can impact on their roles as managers
- Recognise how organisational culture impacts on the expectations and approach required of managers
- Describe how to overcome some of the tensions and challenges inherent in the manager role
- Describe the specific responsibilities of managers in enabling the organisation to achieve its goals.
Presenters: Paul Dixon and Dr Rachel Cowen, The University of Manchester. Guest speaker for 2012: Prof Colin Bailey, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences.
Day 2 – Effective Communications and Developing as Leaders and Managers
Aim: To identify the qualities required to perform successfully in manager roles and review participants’ own development needs against these.
Specific Objectives: By the end of the session participants will be able to:
- Identify the critical role of communications skills in effective management
- Apply various approaches to developing interpersonal relations as a manager
- Describe additional knowledge, skills and behaviours that are required to succeed in the manager role
- Critically assess their own skills and management potential and identify priorities for future development.
Presenter: Deborah Dalley