George and Joan on Successful Middle Management

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

 

In all but the smallest institutions, middle managers—department heads, branch managers, project coordinators, team leaders, and committee chairs—hold the key to whether a library will be successful in realizing its vision. They are the conduits of day-to-day information, they help other staff understand how they fit into the overall direction of the library, and they facilitate the implementation of the library's plans. Without strong middle management, even the most elegantly crafted strategy is likely to get sidetracked.

This webinar will clarify the role and responsibilities of the middle manager and describe techniques that will allow you to be more effective in your work. It will also help aspiring managers to decide whether and how you should pursue this career track. Participants in this webinar will learn how to:

  • Create shared understanding of the library's objectives and priorities
  • Improve communication channels across the hierarchy
  • Represent the interests of line staff without creating a sense of entitlement or victimhood
  • Work accountably and take responsible action

This webinar will be of particular interest to library directors and middle managers, as well as to staff who do not have formal supervisory responsibilities but find themselves in the position of representing staff teams and other groups. It will provide insights to HR staff and staff who hope for promotion. Participation by past and prospective Eureka! Leadership Institute participants is also recommended.

Webinars are free of charge and registration is only done on the day of the event on the WebEx server. No passwords are required.

George Needham and Joan Frye WilliamsSpeakers: George Needham, Joan Frye Williams

Handouts

  • Speaker's slides
    • ppt [4.3mb] - pdf (3 slides per page) [1.7mb]
Available for contracting: 
No