Why Managers Fail Early in Their Careers

The transition from individual contributor to manager is often considered one of the most challenging in a career. While most managers come from non-managerial backgrounds, they possess the technical skills necessary to excel in their field. However, this does not guarantee success in a managerial role. The responsibilities and traits valued in a manager are often in stark contrast to those required for individual contributor positions. This article explores why managers initially struggle in their careers and how some eventually succeed.

The Role Switch

The skills and mindset required for a successful manager are quite different from those needed for a developer or another individual contributor position. For instance, good developers are characterized by:

Worrying about every single little detail Controlling absolutely everything about their code Making sure everything works exactly correctly every single time

These traits are often the opposite of what a good manager should exhibit. Micromanaging is a common pitfall, and understanding that humans cannot work perfectly all the time is essential.

Challenges and the Micro-Manager Trap

The transition from being a developer who perfectly controls their code to a manager who must delegate and trust others is difficult. It often means:

"You know the techniques that made you so good for so long. The ones that got you this promotion. Yeah, don’t do any of those."

This represents a significant shift in approach and can be profoundly challenging. Many managers find it difficult to let go and trust their team members.

Common Challenges

Lack of Delegation

Developers are often used to doing everything themselves and ensuring every detail is perfect. This mindset makes the shift to delegation and trusting others extremely difficult. Managers who fail at this stage often struggle to delegate tasks appropriately, resulting in a lack of trust and productivity.

Communication Barriers

Effective communication is a critical skill for managers. However, developers who are used to working alone may find it hard to communicate effectively with their team. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, misaligned goals, and a decrease in overall team effectiveness.

Overcoming Early Career Struggles

Despite the challenges, many managers eventually succeed. These successes are often due to a combination of:

Learning and growth Seeking feedback Adapting to new responsibilities Support from mentors and peers

Successful managers recognize the importance of growing as a leader and seek opportunities to improve their managerial skills. They also understand the value of seeking feedback to identify areas for improvement and adapt to their new role.

Conclusion

The transition from an individual contributor to a manager is a significant career change that requires a shift in mindset and skill set. While many managers face early struggles, with dedication and support, they can overcome these challenges and succeed in their managerial roles.