MANAGING POPULARITY

AUSSIE jobseekers have their sights set on management roles.

An analysis of keywords searched on job site SEEK last year revealed “manager” was the most searched term.

It was in the top three keywords in 10 of the 30 job categories and topped the list in community services and development, government and defence, and CEO and general management sectors.

“Manager” was also in the top three search terms for hospitality and tourism; manufacturing, transport and logistics; sales; sport and recreation; call centre and customer service; consulting and strategy; and self employment.

Institute of Managers and Leaders (IML) chief executive David Pich says it is natural for successful technical experts to want to take the next step in their careers — and often this means a management role.

“We all enjoy organising, planning and arranging in and outside of work,” he says.

“(Most people want) to share their wisdom, passion and vision with others, and ultimately help other professionals master their technical skills as they have, (and) evolving into a management position is the most direct way to be able to do that.”

Pich says he believes good managers are made, not born.

“The issue right now is that too many professionals in positions of leadership are “accidental managers” — technical specialists who have been promoted in management without the right support for the transition,” he says.

“This often produces leaders who manage ineffectively and unethically.

“Professionals setting themselves up for their first management role should equip themselves with the resources and professional development opportunities. This could include doing management courses, getting mentored by successful managers, attending professional development events, or just networking.”