How Can I Be an IT Manager?
Globally, billions of people have access to a computer. When computers are not performing as they are supposed to, IT professionals are the ones who are contacted to streamline their performance. Most offices today use computer networks in their operations and therefore have to employ an IT manager to keep the system in operation.
With information technology growing daily, the need for IT managers increases. This has attracted the attention of students in every part of the world. However, to be an IT manager, there is a set of skills that you must possess. You must also go to school to learn how to be one.
What is an IT Manager?
IT managers head the IT department thus they are responsible for the management of the IT team. To make sure the department is operating effectively, efficiently and in accordance with the organizational goals, the manager has to devise methods that will keep all the members in check. They might be required to call meetings from time to time and do regular inspections. The manager reports to the senior executives and works closely with the heads of the other departments. For one to become an IT manager, they need to have the following skillset.
Team Management Skills in an IT Department
Since the job is people-centered, the manager must possess people skills and be a good leader so that the people that work below them work according to the company’s expectations. They are also responsible for delegation of duties and must give different duties to the right people.
This means that they have to be in a position to know the capabilities and interests of the employees in that department. They should also build the team’s momentum by involving everyone in team-building exercises. The exercises teach employees how to rely on one another and give them an opportunity to grow.
Decision Making Skills for IT Managers
They must be good decision makers who are able to make quick decisions on matters at hand since the rest of the team looks up to the managers to guide them through different procedures. They should be able to analyze a problem, think through the risks involved and come out with a solution for the situation.
IT Mangers and the Use of Strategic Thinking
IT managers must know how to budget the money that is allocated to the unit so that it fits comfortably, ascertaining that employees are contented with their salaries and that other needs are met. They are responsible for ensuring that the available resources are managed appropriately and this requires them to be excellent strategic thinkers.
Goal Setting skills Play an Important Role in IT Management
Very many people have visions and aspirations of where and what they want to be in the next five to ten years. However, only a few people end up reaching their goals and achieving their set targets. IT managers must be good at setting goals and capable of devising plans, which will see them land there. These goals are important in developing and growing the company. Without the achievement of these targets, both the department and company will lag behind.
Communication and Negotiating Skills Are Important for Any Manager
In almost every field, communication is the key to successful management. In the IT department, it is no different. Managers must be in a position to communicate the policies and ideas of the company effectively to the employees. They must also give proper speeches, which ensure the members of staff get the message that is intended. With good communication, the company will always perform efficiently.
In a managerial role, you are always making deals with different business people including suppliers and customers. In business meetings, you have to be a good negotiator to make lasting agreements and ones that will benefit the company. This way you are able to acquire computing devices at friendly rates.
The IT Field is Changing Fast and Managers Have to Keep Up
The field of information technology is experiencing innovations daily and new devices are a bit different from the previous ones. This requires the manager to be good in adapting new things. They should be able to move at the correct speed for the situation. The knowledge that the manager holds might cease to be useful and this would require them to seek new knowledge. In general, they should be flexible to change.
Do you think you have what it takes to become an IT manager? If you are interested in earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in IT Management, consider ECPI University for the education you need to reach your goals. With accelerated classes and year-round scheduling you could earn your bachelor’s degree in as little as 2.5 years. For more information, connect with a friendly admissions counselor today.
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