Technology oriented careers have been making a comeback. Accordingly, talented technology managers are necessary in every area of the field ? from Web design and development, to database-driven e-commerce, to software engineering, to technical service and support. Technology positions, from programmer to CIO, are also critically important in organizations from all industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, government and service firms. Technology professionals often seek career advancement but need the leadership skills necessary to advance their careers. In response to these industry demands, adult-learning and distance learning schools now offer technology degrees at the bachelor's and master's degree levels, often in accelerated formats.
However, other necessary characteristics of successful technology managers cannot be found on a silicon microchip or in a line of CSS markup code. Some of these characteristics include a talent for leadership; the ability to communicate ideas and directions, and the ability to motivate and mentor staff. These skills are not taught in all technology curricula of the 21st century. However, some information technology and computer science academic curriculum designers are beginning to recognize the importance of teaching soft skills in the classroom. Accordingly, some programs of study now emphasize specialized leadership training for would-be technology managers.
The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that computer and information systems professionals typically require advanced-level training (namely, a master's degree) in order to be considered for leadership positions in technology. The BLS also points to the need for technology job applicants to have diverse experience in technology systems and applications. This experience will allow them to lead staff who work in different departments and who have different types of technology skills. An additional benefit to pursuing training for technology management careers is the bright future outlook of this field. These careers are expected to grow 16 percent through the year 2016.
Technology leadership training programs at the master's degree level will typically have two or three core academic components. The first core component, obviously, is technology. Students who pursue this type of master's degree typically begin the program with knowledge of at least one higher-level programming language; and are comfortable with database management or development, as well as computer networking systems administration. The master's in leadership and information technology course of study will build on students' foundations in information science and systems, enabling students to approach these disciplines from a leadership and management perspective.
Students will learn to lead employees as well as communicate with all levels of the organization and customers.
In CIO Magazine's 2007 State of the CIO survey of more than 500 IT professionals, the three skills ?most pivotal for success in your role? were: the ability to communicate effectively, strategic thinking and planning, and ability to lead/motivate staff. In other words, leadership skills. The primary characteristics that all technology managers must have are leadership skills. These attributes enable technology leaders to motivate staff; to direct projects or business activities in a way that maximizes profits, and to ensure that staff on hand are competent and contribute to strong worker retention. According to career advice site Monster.com, the best managers and leaders in technology are those men and women who are directly involved in project management and task delegation, rather than those who give orders from afar.
In the tech industry, there exists a decades-old stereotype about the social inclinations of technology workers. Unfairly or not, they have been historically pegged as lacking in leadership skills and strong communication abilities. Industry efforts to disassemble this stereotype is one primary reason why students interested in technology management are able to enroll in master's-level programs of study that combine technology skills with interpersonal and leadership skills.
The other reason more and more master's-level technology programs of study focus on business and leadership skills is because technology manager careers have become more specialized and decisions-driven. Managers in tech fields must be able to assess the technology systems in place at their companies, and make system implementation and upgrade decisions that will be positive for their employees and clients. Technology must support and align with organizational goals. Making the right technology decisions requires developed leadership skills, strong soft skills, and polished business acumen.
As technology continues to change and develop rapidly, technology leadership master's degree programs will continue to develop targeted curricula, integrating technology with the business world to produce strong leaders.
If you are in the music industry, then you have probably considered hiring a good music manager. Honestly, a manager can be helpful in your success. Music managers can be amazing for your career but it is imperative that you have anyone working for you sign a valid music contract. Good managers do exist but no matter what, remember you are conducting business and insist on a music contract with any manager you hire.
When you are having anyone sign a music contract, make sure you are actively involved in the entire process and understand the terms of every music contract. Music contracts can be technical but we will review some basics to incorporate so you have better idea of what should be included.
- First, you don't have to be overly complicated to be professional. Money, division of labor and length are to be simply stated.
- No matter how much you want this specific manager to work with you, the benefits should be mutual. Don't overly compensate anyone just to get the to work with you. Be fair and reasonable for both parties.
- Always sign the music contract in good faith.
- Define the music contract term. This is simple the length of time you are planning to work with this manager. Under this term also needs to be a cancellation clause or policy. A lot of these contracts start with one year with an option to extend at the end of the term if both parties are happy.
- A good music contract for managers need to have expectations defined. What do you expect your manager to do? Promote you to labels, book gigs, have merchandise made?
- Money, money, money. According to research, the usual fee for managers is around 15-20% of your take home. This part is crucial so be as specific as possible in your music contract with the manager. Where will their compensation stem from is the question that needs to be answered.
- One clause that needs to be precisely defined is the expenses of the manager. What do you provide and what does he provide on his own? Remember this is your career and business so require receipts and documentation for any reimbursement for expenses.
In conclusion, music contracts for managers need to be written in a manner that is specific to your situation. Not every music contract is the same but the above mentioned terms are important to define and include. Don't over simplify things because you think you can trust this person because boy can things change, especially when it comes to money. Be professional and thorough because after all, it is your career and your music that you need to protect.
Both Jane Muder & Ty Cohen are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.