Surviving the Shrinking Team

Be prepared for a leaner workforce: Embrace the reality that teams may continue to shrink. Learn how to streamline your processes so you can deliver more value with fewer resources.

In the past, managers relied heavily on typists to prepare letters, reports, and other documents. The invention of computers revolutionized this process—suddenly, managers could type their own letters and documents without fear of errors. If you made a mistake on a typewriter, you’d have to use correction fluid, retype the page, or live with an unsightly mark on the paper. With computers, mistakes could be erased with the touch of a delete key, saving time and resources. This shift not only made managers more self-sufficient but also eliminated the need for a separate role dedicated to typing.

Fast forward to today, and we see a similar transformation happening with data analysis. Just as managers once had to learn to type, now they are being asked to take on tasks traditionally handled by data analysts. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data visualization tools, like Power BI, Tableau, and even Excel’s more advanced features, have made it easier for managers to generate insights from data without needing to rely on dedicated analysts.

Here’s the catch: companies are shrinking their teams, and many roles, including data analysts, are being consolidated or eliminated. As a manager, you are increasingly required to operate these AI-driven or data visualization tools yourself. If you lack the basic knowledge of how to analyze data or present it in a meaningful way, you could find yourself left behind in this evolving landscape. The modern manager must not only manage people but also harness data for strategic decision-making.

Without a working knowledge of data analytics, you could find yourself struggling to keep up. This is especially critical as businesses push for greater efficiency and leaner teams. While a manager used to have the luxury of delegating data analysis tasks to an analyst, now you may be expected to handle it yourself. And if your team is reduced in size, you will need to work faster and smarter just to stay on top of your workload. Tools like Excel Power Query, Power Pivot, and visualization software can help you perform tasks that used to take days in just a few hours, but only if you know how to use them.

Moreover, if you are over the age of 40, the challenge may feel even steeper. Many companies are more inclined to train younger employees who haven’t yet gone through years of training and professional development. This can leave older employees at a disadvantage, even though they have valuable experience and insights. However, this doesn’t mean it’s too late for you. On the contrary, your ability to adapt and upskill in data analytics could be the very thing that sets you apart and ensures your relevance in an increasingly automated world.

The truth is, without these skills, your career prospects may be at risk, particularly if your company downsizes or if you find yourself needing to change jobs. Many industries are facing significant shifts toward automation, and those without the technical capabilities to manage data efficiently may struggle to find similar roles.

To remain competitive in today’s environment, you need to take action now:

1. Start learning data analysis tools: Enroll in courses on Power BI, Tableau, Excel Power Query, or AI-driven tools. These are essential skills for analyzing and presenting data efficiently.
2. Practice self-sufficiency: Begin integrating these tools into your day-to-day operations. Automate repetitive tasks, create your own dashboards, and become proficient in extracting insights from data. The more you use these tools, the faster you’ll get.
3. Stay adaptable: Continue upskilling even after you’ve mastered basic data analytics. AI and data tools are constantly evolving, and staying updated will ensure you remain ahead of the curve.
4. Be prepared for a leaner workforce: Embrace the reality that teams may continue to shrink. Learn how to streamline your processes so you can deliver more value with fewer resources.

Managers today face the same technological shift that once replaced typists with computers. The difference is, this time, it’s data analytics and AI that are reshaping the managerial role. You must learn to work efficiently with these tools to remain productive, adaptable, and competitive in a world with smaller teams and greater demands. Start transforming your skill set today, and you’ll ensure that you stay relevant, no matter what the future holds. Don’t wait until you’re left high and dry—take control of your career by upskilling now.

Begin your journey into data analytics today! Enroll in a basic Power BI or Excel Power Query course and start practicing. The sooner you begin, the better positioned you’ll be to thrive in an increasingly digital workplace.