Month: September 2023

How Many Direct Reports Should a Manager Have?

September 24, 2023
by James Stanier
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Q&A

Ah, the classic all-time question that has probably caused more arguments than it has resolved. The answer is, of course, it depends. However, there are some guidelines that can help you make the right decision, both for yourself and for your team. Let’s explore. Span of Control The number of direct reports that a manager has is most commonly referred to as their span of control. It’s a bit of a strange-sounding term, but it’s what […]

Growth in a downturn: progression when you can’t progress

September 8, 2023
by James Stanier
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Managing managers

Denied! A common frustration being felt in my network is that progression opportunities have been slim since the recent economic downturn. I have been speaking to people who are on both sides of this dilemma: those who have been denied progression opportunities themselves, and those who have been unable to secure them for their best staff. The hard truth is that there isn’t really much you can do about it. When the economy is fragile, […]