Welcome to our new blog series, featuring essential takeaways from Resource Revolution – The Resource Management Podcast, hosted by Christine Robinson, Strategic Advisor to Dayshape.
In this blog, we share insights from Season 2, Episode 1, Career Coaching: The key to success in resource management with guest Shelly O’Donovan, CEO and Founder of Authentic Influence Group. This episode kicks off a brand new season of resource management insights, offering actionable and inspiring career advice for resource managers.
Here’s are Shelly and Christine’s key takeaways:
1. Deliver tough messages, develop thick skin
Resource managers must be confident and proactive, ready to have difficult conversations and take the lead. Conflict is inevitable in this role, but it can be managed with the right mindset and practice. Don’t take things personally—avoiding conflict only creates bigger problems over time. Use challenging conversations as opportunities to build strong relationships early on. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll become, and with practice, you’ll quiet the inner voice that tells you that you can’t handle the challenge.
“Resource managers, at any level, often go toe-to-toe with senior leaders, delivering tough messages to those above them – a task that is inherently difficult.“
“Don’t hide behind emails, picking up the phone can make a world of difference.”
“Have the confidence to set the stage early and have that difficult conversation today – avoidance of conflict doesn’t work. Remember, they’re just people trying to get their job done, so you have to divorce yourself from taking things personally.”
“Setting the right first impression is crucial—know your stuff and come prepared. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel.”
2. Keep calm and embrace the chaos
As a resource manager, thriving in chaos and conflict is part of the job. The role requires flexibility, adaptability, and problem-solving in the face of constant change, all while maintaining composure and energy. By staying calm and steady, you set the tone for your interactions, fostering a collaborative environment where problem-solving becomes a shared effort. Trust in your ability to solve the problem, and remember that every solution you provide can positively impact the careers of those you resource and support.
“Turn down the voice that says you can’t do this. Remember, the person bringing you the problem believes you can help—use that as a confidence booster.”
“If you stay calm and steady, you set the pace—and people will want to work with you. It’s a game changer.”
“The ability to find opportunity and draw energy from the chaos is key to success in the resource manager role.”
“It’s not just about getting comfortable with being uncomfortable—you have to allow yourself to get excited about problem solving and believe that you can solve it.”
3. Be visible and open to opportunity
Resource management often operates behind the scenes, but visibility is crucial for success. Build strong relationships across departments and take opportunities to demonstrate your problem-solving abilities. Networking within your company not only helps shape your career path but also opens doors to new possibilities.
“The resource management career path isn’t always clearly defined. Many resource management leaders have had to forge their own direction.”
“What an opportunity to carve your own career path. The nature of the role gives you exposure to various departments and roles, so it’s important to stay open to opportunities.”
“A key piece of advice is to make yourself visible—it will not only help you do your job better but also connect you with others and give you insights into different areas, helping shape your career.”
The key to success for resource managers is to embrace challenges, stay composed, be proactive and visible, and leverage their position to build relationships and advance their careers. The secret sauce? A love for solving puzzles.
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