Management Skills for Technical Professionals

Introduction: Why Technical Supervising Is Unique

Part 1: The Transition: Getting Off to a Good Start

• Make the Transition a Manageable Process
• Before You Begin the Transition
• Starting the Transition Process
• Avoiding Predictable challenging situations
• Understanding the Technical Types
• Proactive Management
• Technical Supervisors' Transition Lessons

Part 2: Communication: Skills for Technical Supervisors

• Communication Challenges Facing Technical Supervisors
• Challenge 1: Understanding Your Personal Style
• Challenge 2: Meeting Interpersonal Communication Demands
• Challenge 3: Developing Situational Strategies
• Technical Supervisors' Communication Lessons

Part 3: Motivation: Creating Incentives

• Motivational Issues
• Motivational Theories
• Motivational Basics
• Unique Motivation Needs of Technical Experts
• What Motivates Technical Supervisors?
• Motivational Challenges Facing Technical Supervisors
• Challenge 1: Overcoming challenging situations
• Challenge 2: Creating a Positive Climate
• Challenge 3: Finding Incentives for Your Technical Team
• Challenge 4: Managing Change

Part 4: Delegation: Learning to Let Go

• Delegation Skills Overview
• Delegation Challenges Facing Technical Supervisors
• Challenge 1: Determine with Whom You Can Let Go
• Challenge 2: Select the Appropriate Strategy
• Challenge 3: Be Sensitive to the Needs of Others
• Challenge 4: Manage Performance and Monitor Progress
• Technical Supervisors' Delegation Lessons
• Managing Virtual Teams
• Understanding Leadership Competencies
• Developing Positive Assertiveness
• The Art of Influencing Others
• Appraising Performance
• Building Teams
• Establishing Employee Accountability
• Feedback Skills for Leaders

Part 5: Planning for Further Development

• Develop a Plan of Action
• Manage Your Job and Advance Your Career
• Politics Can Be Fun
• Technical Supervisors' Final Recommendations