You’re a new Communication Systems manager. What are the most important skills you need to learn?

1 Technical skills

You need to have a solid understanding of the technical aspects of communication systems, such as the hardware, software, protocols, standards, and security measures that are involved. You also need to be familiar with the different types of communication systems, such as wired, wireless, optical, satellite, and radio, and how they work and interact with each other. You should be able to troubleshoot and resolve any technical issues that may arise, as well as plan and implement upgrades and maintenance activities. You should also be able to use various tools and software to monitor, analyze, and optimize the performance and quality of communication systems.

2 Project management skills

You need to have strong project management skills to plan, execute, and control the communication systems projects that you are assigned to or initiate. You should be able to define the scope, objectives, deliverables, and milestones of each project, as well as estimate the time, cost, and resources required. You should also be able to coordinate and communicate with the stakeholders, clients, vendors, and team members involved in each project, and ensure that the expectations and requirements are met. You should also be able to track and report the progress and status of each project, as well as identify and mitigate any risks or issues that may affect the project outcomes.

3 Leadership skills

You need to have effective leadership skills to manage and motivate the communication systems teams that you lead or supervise. You should be able to delegate tasks and responsibilities, provide guidance and feedback, and foster a collaborative and supportive work environment. You should also be able to set clear and realistic goals, measure and evaluate the performance and results, and recognize and reward the achievements and contributions of your team members. You should also be able to handle any conflicts or challenges that may arise within or between teams, and promote a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

5 Problem-solving skills

You need to have strong problem-solving skills to identify and address the challenges and opportunities that may arise in the communication systems field. You should be able to analyze and understand the root causes and effects of the problems, as well as generate and evaluate possible solutions. You should also be able to apply critical and creative thinking, as well as technical and logical reasoning, to solve the problems effectively and efficiently. You should also be able to learn from the problems and implement corrective and preventive actions to avoid or minimize their recurrence.

6 Learning skills

You need to have a keen interest and willingness to learn new and emerging technologies, trends, and best practices in the communication systems field. You should be able to research and acquire relevant and reliable information and knowledge, as well as apply and integrate them into your work. You should also be able to seek and receive feedback, as well as reflect and improve on your own performance and skills. You should also be able to participate in and facilitate learning opportunities, such as training, workshops, webinars, and mentoring, for yourself and your team members.

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?