Essential Skills Every Aspiring Manager Needs to Succeed

2 Essential Skills for Aspiring Managers, Straight from Salesforce

If you want to move into a management role, you might think expertise in your field is the golden ticket. But according to Lori Castillo Martinez, EVP of Talent Growth and Development at Salesforce, it’s not that straightforward. Let’s break down what actually matters when you're aiming for that next step in your career.

Knowledge Isn't Everything

Martinez emphasizes that being a deep expert in your field doesn’t automatically make you a great manager. What truly stands out are collaboration and task management skills.

Collaboration – The Key to Team Success

"Great managers excel at collaboration," Martinez says. They have the ability to lean into team dynamics, understanding individual needs and leveraging everyone's strengths. This is crucial in helping teams work together more effectively.

Task Management – The Art of Organization

Task management complements collaboration perfectly. Good managers not only keep projects on track but also know when to bring in human resources or use AI to maximize productivity. They can assess what tasks are best suited for team members and which can be delegated to artificial intelligence tools.

Upskilling in the Age of AI

As AI becomes more prominent in the workplace, Martinez points out the importance of understanding how to work alongside this technology. Those looking to climb the career ladder should aim to upskill, especially in AI capabilities. In fact, LinkedIn data shows that hiring for AI roles has increased 30% faster than overall hiring. This indicates that companies are on the lookout for individuals who not only adapt to new tech but also know how to use it efficiently.

Take Advantage of Learning Opportunities

One key takeaway? Seize every chance to enhance your skills. If your company offers training programs or courses (like those at Salesforce), dive in! Building your expertise in areas like AI can offer a significant advantage in today’s job market.

Conclusion

Whether you're aiming for a promotion or just looking to be a better team player, remember these two essential skills: collaboration and task management. Lean into your human skills, be open to learning, and you could be well on your way to a fulfilling management role.

So, are you ready to level up? Start honing those skills today!