Management starting routes

Big business

The most popular way to get started in management is to join a graduate training scheme with a large employer. Graduate management schemes tend to only exists where organisations are large enough to require a constant intake of management staff.

They come in several forms but tend to involve a series of placements. You might have a chance to work in a variety of departments so that you can choose one that suits you, or you could spend your time at different branches to see how they operate.

Most large organisations have a similar structure:

• senior managers make big decisions
• middle and lower management oversee the implementation of big decisions and make smaller decisions
• non-managers follow instructions.

Little business

Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) also offer management opportunities but they may be harder to secure without a strong body of managerial experience. If you want to join an SME as a manager, it will pay to get work experience during university breaks, or through part time work.

As a manager in a small organisation, you may find that you’re involved in a variety of areas, but you’ll still need to make decisions, provide leadership and build your skills. Alternatively, you could work your way up in the company – SMEs tend to recognise contributions and reward them with swift promotion.

From the inside

It’s possible to become a manager by progressing from a junior role in any sector. As you become more senior, you’ll take responsibility for overseeing the work of new colleagues (as a team leader) and may progress to running a department (middle management) or even the business (senior management).

Many businesses look favourably on managers who progress through the ranks, as they often bring practical expertise and a more down-to-earth approach.

• There are management roles in almost every sector. For inspiration have a look at the range of business sectors out there.

The career ladder

By starting out in management, you are in the right place to continue moving up the ladder. Nevertheless, you will need plenty of willpower and ambition in order to beat the competition. Of course, there are benefits for those who do get this far. Many managers earn multiple times what their employees do, and may find themselves invited to other functions such as executive lunches or ceremonial occasions.

Alternatively, you may find yourself moving into a more specialised role. One natural progression for managers is into human resources and recruiting. Others may find themselves acting more and more as a consultant, or even lobbying governments. These areas may appeal more to hands-on managers, who prefer to apply the skills they have learned directly, rather than directing others.

• Check out the kind of lifestyle you could be leading with a career in management