6 things you should be doing as a leader of designers
There’s a big difference between a manager and a leader. I’ve been fortunate to work under some great leaders, and have also had my fair share of managers who haven’t understood what is required to be an IC designer. I learned from both what good leadership looks like, and have incorporated these into how I lead design.
Here are the top 6 things you should be doing as a leader of designers.
1. Removing obstacles
Your role as a manager is to enable each team member to do their best work. That means ensuring all requirements are gathered and having as many questions as possible answered before work starts. It’s your job to know the process and understand what’s required for your team members to do their job at their best.
2. Never canceling your teams’ one-on-ones
When you cancel a one-on-one it indicates to team members that they’re not valuable. This is their time; it’s ok for them to cancel, not you. That 20-30 minutes is wholly devoted to that team member, so avoid all other work distractions and give that team member 100% of yourself.
3. Understanding your team
Learn how each team member does their best work. Best of all, ask them! Learn where they want to go in their careers, and what they want to do next (see 4.).
4. Prioritizing your team's growth
Learn what your team members are really interested in pursuing and try to arrange work that will enable that progress to be made. Think about their next role and how the work they’re doing under you will enable them to progress to the next stage of their career, whether that’s with your company or not.
5. Encouraging open communication
Your team should feel able to talk to each other and others within the organization. Fostering a safe community within your team is vital for building trust, and consequently, your team becomes a place where everyone can learn from each other. Help team members navigate company structure and trust them to talk with those higher than them in the organization.
6. Setting a vision, goals, and objectives
It’s human to want to be part of something bigger than ourselves. When you set a clear vision and goals for your team, it’s easier for them to channel their energy toward those. It also builds a sense of togetherness and camaraderie within the team, as everyone is on the journey together.
Incorporating these elements into how you lead your design team is part of what good leadership looks like. There are other non-critical elements you can add to make your unique leadership style, but I would suggest the above are non-negotiable.
Andy Chipperfield
