Here's how you can balance managing a team while developing your own career.

1 Set Goals

Establish clear, measurable goals for both your team and yourself. For your team, create objectives that align with the organization's vision, and for your own career, set milestones that challenge you and expand your expertise. Regularly review these goals to ensure they remain relevant and achievable. This dual focus not only keeps your team on track but also ensures you are continuously developing skills that enhance your leadership abilities and career prospects.

2 Delegate Wisely

Delegation is a critical skill in team management and personal career development. By entrusting tasks to your team members, you empower them and free up time to focus on strategic planning and personal growth activities. Choose tasks that play to each member's strengths and provide opportunities for them to develop new skills. Effective delegation not only boosts your team's capabilities but also allows you to pursue higher-level responsibilities that can propel your career forward.

3 Continuous Learning

Embrace the concept of lifelong learning for yourself and your team. Encourage your team to seek out learning opportunities and lead by example by participating in professional development courses, workshops, or seminars. This shared commitment to learning keeps everyone's skills sharp and adaptable to change, which is essential in today's fast-paced work environment. As a manager, the insights gained from continuous learning can be applied to improve team performance and inform your career trajectory.

4 Feedback Loops

Implement a robust feedback system within your team. Regular, constructive feedback helps team members improve and stay engaged, while also providing you with insights into your management style and areas for personal improvement. Encourage an open dialogue where feedback flows both ways, creating a culture of transparency and trust. This practice not only benefits team dynamics but also hones your interpersonal skills, which are invaluable for career advancement.

5 Network Actively

Networking isn't just for job seekers; it's a powerful tool for managers looking to grow their careers while leading a team. Actively build relationships within and outside of your organization. Networking can lead to mentorship opportunities, partnerships, and new perspectives that can enhance your team's performance and open doors for your career progression. Remember, the connections you make can serve as both a support system for your current role and a bridge to future opportunities.

6 Balance Priorities

Mastering the art of prioritization is key to managing a team while developing your career. Learn to distinguish between urgent and important tasks, and allocate your time accordingly. Prioritize activities that yield the greatest benefit for your team's success and your career growth. Balancing these priorities effectively ensures that neither your team's needs nor your professional development are neglected, leading to success on both fronts.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?