Managing employees whose job you can neither do nor understand is a daunting task, regardless of whether you are dealing with software developers or other, most often technically oriented experts. The essential point is that the company's success depends on these professionals and you have to manage them in a way that is beneficial for all involved. That, at least, is the opinion of Jack Welch.
1. Show a willingness to understand
You should start by clarifying a fundamental rule of your team's operation that says managers will keep asking questions to understand adequately specific aspects of the work of their subordinate professionals and the professionals will keep answering for as long as necessary. Managers must clearly demonstrate that they want to understand better the work of their subordinates.
2. Connect work with strategic goals
Strive so as best to understand how specific technologies or tools contribute to the company's business strategy. Ask, for example: "How will every single piece of the hardware used affect our strategic objectives?" Ask questions so you can find more flexible and efficient solutions. Teach your experts to see not only the technical but also the business perspective of their work.
3. Respect experts as people
Although they may seem like aliens at first glance, all professionals are primarily people. Remember, therefore, to focus on relationships based on mutual respect and trust. Try to get closer to your subordinates as people. Then you will better understand how you can help them do their work.
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