Over half (56%) of UK IT managers feel unequipped to manage their teams effectively, according to a recent poll conducted by Parity, the IT services company.
The research, carried out among more than 200 IT professionals, also revealed that 67 per cent of IT staff recognised this skills gap among their managers. Almost half also said that their managers lack vital communication skills and 18 per cent said they did not have the necessary skills to delegate successfully.
Joe Kelly, managing director at Parity Resourcing Solutions, is concerned about the effect that this leadership skills ëgapí will have on businesses:
ìA recognition of the skills gap may affect levels of motivation and productivity among IT managers and their teams. Not only this, but the results also suggest that businesses need to place more importance on the softer skills needed by IT managers in order to fulfil their increasingly strategic roles.î
ìHistorically, IT managers have been assessed on their technical acumen, but their role has changed a great deal in recent years as technology has taken on greater strategic importance in a drive to improve cost efficiencies. As a result, not only is there a need for more and improved leadership training to bridge this skills gap, but also a need to re-think the recruitment and appraisal processes in UK businesses. It is important that, when appointing and promoting IT professionals to management and board level, businesses recognise the importance of a well-balanced skills set,î Kelly concluded.
Softer skills needed to restore faith in IT management says Parity
Research reveals that over half of IT managers lack leadership skills
