Becoming a New Manager - Todd DeLuca - STC Summit 2015

Becoming a New Manager

Todd DeLuca

@TechCommTodd@STC_Summit #stc15

@TechCommTodd Becoming New Manager #stc15

Join the conversation

Why are you here?

What we’ll cover:

•My journey

•Preparing for the Trip

•Settling In

•Questions

•Classroom pic

Leadership is a journey, not a destination.

@TechCommTodd #stc15


My Background

• Master’s Degree in Tech Comm

• 15 Years in Software Development

• Manage team of Tech Writers

• Active STC Volunteer• Conference Speaker• Past Chapter President

(Philadelphia Metro)

My Journey

• Senior Technical Writer • Lone Writer • No Technical

Communications team • No manager position • Worked remotely • New boss

Be the driver of your career, not just a passenger.



Getting Prepared:Take an Inventory



Getting Prepared

• Ask Yourself Questions• Prepare a Checklist• Write Down Your Goals

Getting Prepared• Think of Decision Maker

Questions

• Put Yourself in Their Shoes

• Conduct Mock Interview

Getting Prepared:Chart Your Course



Getting Prepared

• Examine Surroundings

• Chart a Course

• Where do you want to go?

Getting Prepared

• Look for Others

• Who else is on the road?

• Where do you stand?

Getting Prepared

• Identify people who can assist in your journey

• Find navigators, passengers, and copilots

Getting Prepared:Hit the Road



Hit the Road

• Talk About Your Plans

Hitting the Road

• Be a courteous driver

• Use turn signals

• Let others in your lane

Hitting the Road

• Document Your Current Role

• Write down processes and procedures

You don’t need a title to be a leader. Why wait?



Settling In:You’ve Arrived. Now what?



Is it right for me?

• Being a manager is different• Are you comfortable with

the changes?

Start with Basics

• Look Around• Learn Responsibilities• Get to know your team

Adjust to the Role

• Expect ups and downs with initial discomfort• Start slow and give

yourself time

Own It

• It’s a job, like any other

• Your mileage will vary

• You will improve with time and patience

• It’s worth the experience

Are you ready?Pack up and put it in Drive.



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Presentation Info

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Questions?

Let’s Connect

@TechCommTodd

[email protected]

TechCommTodd

Leadership & Management

Becoming a New Manager - Todd DeLuca - STC Summit 2015