There is no one definitive answer to whether a manager should come from a technical background. Some people believe that it is essential for the manager to have a deep understanding of the technology to effectively manage and lead their team. Others feel that it is more important for the manager to have strong business skills and be able to understand the big-picture goals of the company, rather than focusing on specific details about technology.
We will discuss it on four different dimension with pros and cons of technical background in managing resources.
The advantage of having technical knowledge in managerial positions
When it comes to making decisions about technology, products, and services, those with strong technical backgrounds have an innate understanding of the complexities and implications involved in such choices. They also bring credibility to the table when working with teams of engineers and developers — after all, who understands code better than someone who wrote it?
Additionally, they may be more equipped to identify potential risks associated with new technologies or implementations early on and work towards mitigating them before they become actual problems further down the line.
Are technical people also good managers?
Many people believe that to be an effective manager, you need to have strong people skills and be able to effectively communicate with your team members. While this is certainly true, it’s not always necessary for a manager to have a technical background themselves.
There are many successful managers out there who do not come from a purely technical background; however, I believe that those individuals possess qualities which make them especially suited for managing high-performing teams within technically oriented organisations (eagerness to learn new things quickly and ability to see both sides of every issue).
On the other hand, those without much tech savviness might find themselves struggling when trying to manage engineers, as well as dealing with complex systems/products/services that they don’t understand fully. Technical people can make great managers because they are used to working under pressure, handling difficult challenges, and making tough decisions. They usually have high IQs and strong analytical skills which help them when it comes to problem-solving leadership.
They are also detail oriented which is another key trait for good management. They possess qualities like discipline and focus which makes them successful in their career as well as in management roles.
Is managing high performing team different as compared to typical management?
Managing high performing teams is definitely different than leading average ones. In order for teams to achieve exceptional results, team members need freedom within defined boundaries. Managers need excellent communication skills and technical knowledge in order to connect effectively with employees at all levels. Managing high performers requires specific set of skills that most traditional or general managers may not have necessarily developed or may not be comfortable using these include things such as:
- Setting stretch goals.
- Being able to navigate through politics without getting bogged down.
- Being able to give direct feedback effectively (and receive it).
- Knowing how & when use authority.
- Decision making must be quick yet informed.
- Provide vision and motivation while maintaining focus on key objectives.
So, while managing high performers may require some additional skills — it’s definitely doable for those who want take up this challenge.
Qualities of good mangers
Some of the key qualities of an effective manager include:
- being able to empathize with employees
- Coaching & mentoring abilities.
- Decisiveness.
- Integrity.
- Excellent communication skills (both verbal & written)
- Problem-solving abilities.
Additionally, leaders should strive to continuously learn new things so they can keep up with current trends in their industry. It’s important for managers today not only be technically sound but also have strong soft skills so that they can connect with their teams effectively
Conclusion
In my opinion, both viewpoints have valid points. It is helpful if the manager understands how things work technically and can communicate with their team on that level, but at the same time they also need to be able to see beyond individual projects and understand how their department or division fits into the overall company strategy. There are many talented managers who do not come from a technical background, but they are good at learning quickly and understanding complex concepts when needed.