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Moving up in IT

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by cybergrrl

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I work in IT at a medium size medical center and am responsible for creating and overseeing new technology spaces. This allows me to work with all departments in the company and with all areas within IT as well as outside vendors in a project manager type of role. I also supervise 10-15 front line IT support staff. A new position is being created to oversee the customer side of IT - help desk, technicians, system analysts, etc and I'm contemplating applying for it. I don't feel I have the technical knowledge necessary but I do have the supervisory experience and ability. I normally wouldn't apply for such a job except several positions that have been filled over the past few years have gone to individuals who do not have the people skills, technical skills, or supervisory skills necessary for their jobs. At least I would have the desire and ability to learn the areas I'm weak in if I were to get the job and I know I'm more qualified than others in the department planning to apply. I've worked in IT for over 20 yrs and will be retiring in less than 5.

I'd just like some feedback on how others would handle this situation. Should I apply and emphasize my potential or not apply and take my chances having to work for someone clueless in the position?

3 replies

by dennylutz

I would say go for it !! here is why.

A lot of people think that you need "technical skills" to be a manager. This is not true. Most pain in the ass managers are the technical ones that micro manage everything. As a leader, you must trust your team members and hold them accountable for their actions.

by tony hopkinson

It's your management ability that is vital. Leadership is also useful, domain experience a bonus.

After even more years in IT than yourself on the technical side, I still maintain I'd rather have a good manager managing me, than a good anything else.

I don't give a crap if they are technically clueless, if they are a good manager they'll trust me to translate the techno-babble into their terms. If they aren't a good manager, their technical skills and experience, even if they surpass mine are irrelevant.

So can you pick good people and trust them, or not?
If not, well you won't be the only manager lacking skills critical to their role...

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