How to succeed as a middle manager

TO GET to the top, you have to go through the middle first.

But while there are plenty of guides on being a great leader, there’s not so much support for being an outstanding middle manager.

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Around six million Brits work in some form of middle management, meaning they are not at C-suite or board level, but are still responsible for managing teams of people below them, sometimes made up of hundreds of staff.

It’s a unique position with a unique set of challenges, but also offering huge opportunities.

Pay for middle management can range from £30k a year to well over six figures and once you have the skillset, it’s often easy to move industries too.

There’s nothing middling in the attributes you need, so here’s how to succeed as a middle manager.

1. What does a typical middle manager do? 

The exact role will depend on the industry but most middle managers will carry out he business plans drafted by senior executives, oversee their department, manage their department’s budget, allocate tasks to junior staff while also training them too.

You may also be involved in recruitment plus discipline procedures, if needed.

2. What key skills will I need? 

Plenty! The best middle managers are both strategic and tactical.

Then can see the business from the CEO’s viewpoint and what needs to be done in the middle and longer term to ensure success, but they are also able to manage day-to-day to get the job done.

For this you’ll need insight, empathy, communication skills and the ability to lead and inspire.

The best manager are fair but firm so everyone know where they stand.

3. How do I manage up? 

Understand your organisation’s values and what senior leaders are trying to achieve.

Be accountable for your teams’ successes but also its failures. Be willing to learn and grow. 

Promote yourself appropriately such as through LinkedIn and company in-house schemes but credit the successes of your colleagues too.

4. And manage those below me? 

Much of your job will be implementing orders from managers senior to you.

To get buy-in from your team, communicate clearly, consult closely with junior with colleagues and adapt them to suit your department.

Delegate effectively, take on board constructive feedback and let your team know you have their best interests at heart.

5. How can I improve my promotion prospects? 

Be visible and be on top of your job. Let senior management and HR know you are keen to progress with the company and go the extra mile in your job to show you have what it takes.

Most sectors have some form of professional certification so study for this or consider a management qualification such as an MBA or Chartered Management Institute at managers.org.uk/education-and-learning/qualifications.

No need to manage your expectations – all these middle management jobs are top notch, thanks to Sun Jobs.

Retail Shift Manager, Lidl, London

Here’s a Lidl job which offers a big opportunity to progress

The Job: Lidl is hiring a Retail Shift Manager to keep the store running like clockwork.

What You’ll Do: You will motivate the team and delegate tasks, taking full responsibility for the shop floor when running a shift. Helping satisfy customers and making sure the store reaches its targets are always the top priorities in this busy, fast-paced retail environment.

You’ll Need: You will need experience leading a sizeable team to achieve regular sales and performance targets, excellent delegating skills and the ability to motivate. Great communication skills and willingness to work as part of a larger team are essential. 

Apply Now: Find out more about this job, along with other opportunities at Lidl.

Assistant Manager, Wingstop UK, Reading

We want to crow about this job as you only need a year’s experience!

The Job: Wingstop, one of the UK’s fastest-growing restaurant brands, is hiring an Assistant Manager to join its team in Reading.

What You’ll Do: You’ll work alongside your general manager to create a great working environment, and deliver a top-class experience at all times. Full training is provided upon start.

You’ll Need: The ideal candidate will have up to a year of management experience in hospitality, retail or leisure, and the drive to gain knowledge within a hectic environment. A focus on customer service is a must.

Apply Now: See more details of this role, along with other jobs at Wingstop UK.

Assistant Manager, Five Guys, Bristol

Get on the fast-track to success with this top fast food chain role

The Job: Five Guys is recruiting an Assistant Manager for its Bristol location.

What You’ll Do: You’ll be responsible for shift managers and crew, helping support the entire team in delivering excellent food and an “above and beyond” customer service experience. Dealing with customer complaints, creating an awesome working environment for staff and ensuring every customer is delighted with their Five Guys experience all fall under your remit.

You’ll Need: You will be competitive and enthusiastic, with a can-do attitude. Hands-on experience in leadership, and strong customer service skills are a must.

Apply Now: Apply for this job now, or see other opportunities at Five Guys.

Discover thousands of open vacancies for jobs all across the UK now on The Sun Job Board.

This post first appeared on thesun.co.uk