Alpha managers – that is managers, male or female who I so certain of their own opinions that they can’t take time or effort to listen to others – can be a mixed blessing. I encountered one during my mid 30s, at a crucial time in my career, who nearly derailed me from my intended goals. I’ve struggled with the personality type ever since, not least because I think that I’ve probably got it within me to be an alpha manager myself.
Of course, alpha managers can be a real asset. They tend to be single minded, creative and very inspirational, and can make sure that they acquire the team that they need to get a job done. They also tend to resist change, and be insensitive to other people’s feelings (although not their own).
One way to deal with an alpha manager is to get them to do real applied study. An MBA is the ideal kind of course for these types of people who are very motivated, because this level of education forces individuals to recognize the need for and the value of change. An MBA will also stress the value of all the different areas of management, including the need to develop people skills as well as the need to amass data to make good decisions.
Managers need to manage from their personal strengths, but they also need to be aware of their weaknesses. Education helps individuals to be aware of both strengths and weaknesses, and enables them to develop strategies to aid both.
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