What Courses Should New IT Managers Take to Improve Leadership Skills?

Are you leaning towards formal education like college courses or certifications? If it's the latter, WGU offers a flexible online IT program that gives you certifications along the way. You could also look into formal project management courses like PMP and CISM, which are quite respected in the field.

Managing people effectively is crucial. It’s important to understand how to support your team and how to provide feedback. Along with that, budgeting skills come into play if you’re managing finances. A grasp of what makes a team successful can be incredibly beneficial, so observe effective leaders around you.

Search for training that emphasizes coaching, feedback, and communication skills. A key part of managing is developing good relationships with your team and understanding their needs. Some team members appreciate more connection, while others prefer more space.

It's really about figuring out your own leadership style. There’s no one-size-fits-all certification for leadership, but reading books like 'Leaders Eat Last' or 'The Phoenix Project' can offer great insights. Also, consider taking an ITIL course for a grounded approach to IT governance.

Project management is essential for every IT manager. Knowing how to run projects efficiently and document your success will make a huge difference. Consider taking a project management course to solidify those skills.

Start with foundational texts like Machiavelli's 'The Prince' and Sun Tzu's 'The Art of War.' While certifications are useful, these classic books can help establish a strong mindset for leadership.