Once again, Heir Atwood reminds us of the things we shouldn’t forget. I’ve had a natural progression towards the type of management Jeff mentions (the good type that is). As I grow older and hopefully wiser, I learn (and keep on learning) to build teams with people who can be relied on; where I can sit on the sidelines while the engine hums.

I’m fortunate right now to be “leading” a team like that. (quoted because when you have pros, everyone knows what to do, when and how, and they do it well. They don’t need to lead all that much).

Speaking for each point he mentions:

Do you pride yourself on being “on top of” the projects or your direct reports? Do you have a solid grasp of the details of every project?

Unfortunately, I still have a way to go here. I don’t pride myself on being on top, nor do I even try anymore, but it does bother me inside when I don’t know every detail … I’ll get over myself one day :)

Do you believe that you could perform most of the tasks of your direct reports, and potentially do a better job?

Absolutely not! I use the strengths and interests of everyone on the team.

Do you pride yourself on frequent communication with your employees? Does that communication include asking them for detailed status reports and updates?

I wouldn’t say I pride myself, but I do think frequent communication is important. I generally don’t ask for reports … unless I’ve pinpointed a problem case. Status reports are more about helping the problem team member, than keeping me up to date.

Do you believe that being a manager means that you have more knowledge and skills than your employees, and thus are better equipped to make decisions?

No. It just means that I’ve chosen a career path that includes some for of leadership as well as organizational and people skills. Sometimes I’m better equiped to make decisions, but not because of any supposed superior technical knowledge, but because of the extra insight I might be given by stakeholders.

Do you believe that you care about things (quality, deadlines, etc.) more than your employees?

No. No. No. Nuff said.

Obviously, I don’t claim perfection here. I’m still young have a lot to learn. I try my best, and read, read, read and absorb from great writers. A good start for anyone wanting reading material in the area would be this.