YOUR CAREER IN BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Business managers have a variety of responsibilities based on the size and nature of an organisation. In a large company, they may specialise in one function of the business and work with other managers and team leaders to achieve goals. In a smaller company, they may control the strategic direction of the business on their own and oversee various departments. Tasks may include:

• Conversing with clients, employees and stakeholders
• Utilising in-person meetings, video conferencing, phone calls and email for communication 
• Reading and assessing specific business reports and data
• Creating business reports and data
• Working on long-term strategies for the business
• Manage employees
• Participate in department or management meetings
• Focusing on specific business goals
• New product development
• Client account management and retainment
• Action revenue growth strategies

Almost every industry requires good business management professionals. However, professional services, information media and telecommunications, administration, health care and manufacturing are particularly prominent for business managers.

The 2019–2020 WGEO (Workplace Gender Equality Agency) Report brought forth some data about the percentage of women in business leadership positions. Women make up:

• 48% of key management positions
• 28% of directors
• 15% of board chairs

The WGEA Report also details a valuable 10-step process for getting more women into management positions.

1. Build a strong case for change
2. Role-model a commitment to diversity, including with business partners
3. Redesign roles and work to enable flexible work and normalise uptake across levels and genders
4. Actively sponsor rising women
5. Set a clear diversity aspiration, backed up by accountability
6. Support talent through life transitions
7. Ensure the infrastructure is in place to support a more inclusive and flexible workplace
8. Challenge traditional views of merit in recruitment and evaluation
9. Invest in frontline leader capabilities to drive cultural change
10. Develop rising women and ensure experience in key roles

Around 89% of people employed as a business management professional work full-time hours, with an average of 49 hours per week in their main job.

If you have an entrepreneurial mind, starting your own business may be the perfect choice to kickstart your new career path. Whatever your specific goals, having the right tools, education and skills behind you will help you find success in your exciting new venture. 

We’d recommend gaining your Certificate IV in Entrepreneurship and New Business (BSB40320) or other formal business qualification to gain a clear understanding of how to succeed in a small business. Starting a new business takes a host of interpersonal skills, as well as insight into legal and risk management and financial planning. These can be learned through a formal qualification. 

Starting a career in business leadership and management begins with the right attitude, willingness to network and the drive to qualify yourself with the right skills and knowledge. A qualification in business like the Diploma of Business (BSB50120) is an excellent way to ensure you are learning the right skill sets and able to confidently succeed in any job role and industry. For those succeeding in a 2IC role and looking to transfer into a leading and managing role, the Diploma of Leadership & Management (BSB50420) is an excellent choice for developing critical management skills.