Many young designers ask me about career paths—and whether they should consider management. One of the most pivotal milestones in my own career was transitioning from an individual contributor to a Design Manager. It wasn't something I had planned, but it turned out to be one of the most rewarding shifts I've made. It expanded my skillset, changed how I think about impact, and helped me grow not just as a designer, but as a leader.

What's my story?

Like many of you, I was eager to keep growing. I'd been consistently performing well, and I was ready for a new challenge. One day, my then-manager Kristin said something that stuck with me: "Amber, have you considered becoming a manager? I think you'd be great." That spark opened a door I hadn't seriously considered before.

Later, my manager Deb helped create real opportunities for me to explore that path. When a management role opened up on our team, I decided to take the leap. I've always believed in going with the flow and letting the journey take me where it's meant to go. This time, it took me somewhere new.

How I prepared

Following your heart is important—but so is doing the work. Before I stepped into a management role, I made sure I was ready:

Self-reflection: I asked myself tough questions like "Who do I want to be in three years?" and "What kind of leader do I admire?"
Mentorship: I reached out to people I looked up to and listened carefully to their stories and advice.
Learning: I read books like The Making of a Manager—a must-read if you're even a little curious about this path.

Key qualities for a successful manager

Here are a few things I believe are essential to thrive in a management role:

Empathy: You need to care—really care—about your people.
Communication: You have to be a strong listener, problem solver, and decision-maker.
Inspiration: Tailor your leadership to the individuals on your team. Understand what drives them.
Courage: Tough decisions will come. Be ready to face them with empathy and fairness.

And there is the truth - Not everyone should be a manager

And that's totally okay. Management isn't the only path to growth.

Ask yourself:

Do you genuinely enjoy mentoring and guiding others?
Do you like planning projects and delegating tasks?
Do you align with your company's goals and vision?
Are you comfortable with responsibility—and sometimes, emotional labor?

If not, that's not a failure. It just means your path might look different—and that's a good thing. Many of my talented friends have no interest in management. They've built amazing careers as senior ICs, staff designers, and specialists. All paths lead to growth.

A checklist to consider

If you're considering a transition, ask yourself:

Why do I want to become a manager?
Am I prepared for the increased stress and responsibility?
Do I enjoy problem-solving and supporting others?
Am I comfortable giving and receiving feedback?
Can I say no when needed?
Am I willing to make tough calls, even when it's hard?
What fears or concerns do I have about the role?

In closing