Accidental to inspirational
Deon Pillayi has seen many accidental managers throughout his career. In fact, he was one. He secured his first leadership role 21 years ago and, without any training, had to figure out a management style himself.
Looking back, he sees where he may have gone wrong in the early days. He had a tendency to overshare and although having a good relationship with his team is still important, he now realises that setting professional boundaries is also key.
But now, as a Chartered Manager (CMgr) - the highest professional accolade, only awarded by CMI - things are completely different.
He says: “Most leaders are the subject matter experts who suddenly become managers.
But being Chartered shows credibility. It actually changes the way people perceive you. You’re seen as a true leader who has credentials behind the great work you’ve already been doing.
It’s a no brainer to get that qualification. It elevates your status and creates so many opportunities for you to extend your career, and to help support the development of those coming up after you.”
“Bad” managers Deon worked for during his career, he says, were the ones who micromanaged, and it’s clear that this has shaped his management style today. “I want to be somebody who really empowers people, and who inspires them to bring their best every single day. Having those negative leaders in the past who are very self-serving, they’re the people who will always take the credit, they’re the ones who don’t have your back. And when you lose trust in those individuals, it’s very difficult to want to work for them.”
Always learning
Believing in the growth mindset, Deon felt compelled to become Chartered, fearing that he’d become stale if he didn’t challenge himself: “If you don’t keep learning new things, how do you top up to make sure your people are getting the best from you? As leaders, sometimes we forget about that.
We stick to traditional methods of managing, but the world’s evolving.”
As progressive leaders, we have to keep evolving ourselves - always learning, always looking at what’s happening.
“Psychological safety has become a big thing over the last couple of years, and knowing how to be an empathetic leader is part of that journey. There are some great resources on the CMI website to support that.”
Deon has learnt far more than just people management during his Chartership - with his business management skills soaring since he started his training.
“CMI’s leadership programmes show you how to manage your people and your resources effectively in a project where you’re working to very tight deadlines. I also learnt how to better manage budgets and how to navigate tricky stakeholders and personalities. Playing to my skills as well, was really instrumental in delivering that programme of change.”
As someone who’s always learning, Deon says the biggest benefits of having a CMI membership is having access to thought leadership commentary and analysis, mentoring and events.
“To anyone thinking about Chartered leadership and management qualifications. Stop thinking. Just do it. It’s the best thing you’ll ever do.”
Why become a Chartered Manager?
Backed by a Royal Charter, this prestigious accolade is only awarded through CMI and demonstrates that you have exceptional management and leadership skills.
- Get professional recognition: Becoming Chartered proves that you meet the highest standard in management and leadership.
- Highlight your commitment: Pursuing Chartered Manager (CMgr) status showcases your dedication to continuing professional development and your expertise to employers and peers.
- Gain a competitive edge: Chartered Manager status makes you stand out to employers in the competitive job market.
- Enhance your skills: Lead your team more effectively and boost productivity.