Embarking on a management career? Online study has made it simpler than ever to gain the essential skills you need.
Whether you're looking to step up at work or you're already in a leadership role aiming to improve, online management courses allow you to build your management and communication skills around your day-to-day commitments.
Take control of your career path and become the manager your team members respect and rely on.
What is a Manager?
A manager is the backbone of any team, whether in retail, tech, healthcare, or hospitality. They juggle day-to-day operations while leading team members towards common goals. Armed with key communication and decision-making skills, a manager navigates the unique challenges each industry presents.
In retail, they might focus on customer experience; in tech, perhaps it's project management; and in healthcare, patient care coordination could be the priority. Regardless of the field, a manager's role is pivotal in steering the team and contributing to successful business administration.
Day in the Life of a Manager
The daily duties of a manager can vary depending on the industry, but there are some commonalities. A typical day often involves:
- Team Meetings: Start the day by checking in with team members to outline the day's goals and address any concerns.
- Workflow Management: Overseeing the day-to-day operations and making sure projects are on track.
- Decision-making: From allocating resources to settling disputes, quick and effective decision-making is crucial.
- Communication: Keeping open channels with both senior managers and team members, updating them on project statuses and any roadblocks.
- Problem-solving: Whether it's a bottleneck in the workflow or a team conflict, a manager needs to find effective solutions.
- Leadership: Motivating the team, providing mentorship, and fostering a positive work environment.
- Performance Reviews: Depending on the management role, assessing team members' work and providing constructive feedback may be a regular duty.
- Administrative Tasks: These could range from budgeting to human resources responsibilities, contributing to the broader scope of business administration.
- Professional Development: Keeping up-to-date with industry trends, participating in meetings, and perhaps even honing their own management skills.
- Planning: Ending the day by setting priorities for the next day or week, ensuring the whole team knows what needs to be done.
In a management job, juggling these tasks effectively is essential, and it's a role that calls for a unique blend of hard work and emotional intelligence.
Manager Skills
Being an effective manager involves a blend of soft skills (skills you likely already have) and hard skills (skills you’d learn through an online management course, for example).
Manager Soft Skills
- Communication
- Empathy
- Leadership
- Decision-making
- Motivating
- Problem-solving
- Emotional Intelligence
- Teamwork
Hard Skills for Managers
- Budgeting: Crucial for managing resources, from salaries to project costs, to ensure profitability and sustainability.
- Project Management: The ability to lead a project from conception to completion within a specified timeframe and budget.
- Workflow Planning: Organising tasks, setting priorities, and allocating resources to maximise efficiency.
- Data Analysis: Interpreting data to make informed decisions, often using software tools for better accuracy.
- HR Management: Overseeing hiring, onboarding, and perhaps even conflict resolution within the team.
- Time Management: Balancing multiple responsibilities effectively, a key aspect for any good manager.
- Software Proficiency: Depending on the industry, understanding various software tools can be essential—from CRM systems in sales to coding platforms in tech.
- Industry Knowledge: Being well-versed in industry-specific practices, regulations, and trends to guide the team effectively.
How Much Can You Earn as a Manager?
According to Labour Market Insights, a general manager can earn an annual average salary of $82,836.
This figure depends on your chosen industry and your level of skill. For example, a construction manager in Australia can earn an average of $181,844 per year.
At the end of the day, the more skills, knowledge and management know-how you have under your belt, the more you can earn.
Manager Employment Outlook
Jobs & Skills Australia predicts strong growth in management positions. Covering five years from November 2021 to November 2026, the workforce is anticipated to see robust growth and is projected to reach 95,700 by 2026.
So, if you’re considering up-skilling to become a manager, there’s never been a better time.
How to Become a Manager
If you're eyeing a management position in Australia, the entry avenues are more versatile than ever before.
- Online Courses: Online education platforms such as Online Courses Australia provide a range of management courses that will set you up for success in your chosen career path. Our HR, Management & Communication Courses cover the fundamentals—from effective communication to leadership skills. Ideal for those juggling current roles and other responsibilities, online learning offers a convenient option.
- Micro-Credentials: Think of these as bite-sized credentials that hone in on particular managerial skills, giving you specialised expertise in areas that matter most. For example – Conflict Management or Performance Management.
Start Your Management Course Today
Ready to take the next step in your career? Start your management course today with Online Courses Australia.
With flexible study options and a diverse range of courses tailored to your needs, you're in the driver's seat of your own professional development.
Plus, study from anywhere at any time, guided by experienced Australian mentors.
Don't put your future on hold—enrol today and become the manager you're meant to be.
Advanced Staff Management Course Info Pack Download
If you have additional questions about our management courses or our full range of courses that cover more than 20 different professional industries:
- Call: 1300 611 404
- Email: [email protected]
- Book a career call
Related Courses & Roles
If you have a genuine passion for leading and managing people, here are some related courses and roles to check out:
- Career Development