Management Material
Welcome to Management Material.
My name is Catherine Van Der Laan. I started my career at the bottom as an assistant and worked my way up to become the boss’s boss in 8 years. If there’s anything I’ve learned, it’s that what got you to where you are now won’t get you to where you want to be.
This podcast is for top performers who want to be amazing managers. I’ve coached lots of talented people to get them from entry-level to recognized top performers to new managers to seasoned executives. I challenge deeply held beliefs and change how people see the world.
Management is all about leadership. The best managers were developed leaders long before they had any direct reports.
Here's one thing that most people won't tell you: Management is a skill. Management is a skill you can learn, just like the hard skills that got you to where you are now.
Management Material is about developing you into the best manager you can be. Let’s turn YOU into management material.
Episodes
Lead with Vision
Getting Hired and Social Media: Your Digital Footprint
Building an AI-Proof Resume and Cover Letter
Get a New Full-Time Job: Find Your Full-Time Fit
Leadership vs. Management: What's the Difference Between a Manager and a Leader?
Rebuilding Trust and Mastering Transparent Communication in Leadership
Mastering the Art of Feedback: A Leadership Journey to Support and Success
Steering Through Uncertainty: Strategies for Inspiring and Re-Engaging Your Team
Leading After Your Company Has Experienced a Layoff
How to Get Back on Your Feet After Being Laid Off
Leadership: Take the Blame, Lend the Credit
Gaining the Respect of Your Team as a New Manager
How to Handle It When Someone Else Takes Credit for Your Work
How to Get Promoted or Get a Better Job
How to Protect Yourself from a Layoff
Leading Around Indecisive Leaders: A Lesson in Tact
How to Lead a Hybrid or Remote Team: Running Effective and Inclusive Meetings
Communicating with Executives: Point First, Explanation Later
Getting Close With Your Team: Build Trust Over Time
Answering Management Interview Questions: Communicate Wisdom in Action
Focus on What's Good, Not What's Fair: Stop Being Bitter and Be Better
Work When You're at Work
What to Do When You Have an Underperforming Team Member
Integrity is the Key Characteristic of a Strong, Long-Lasting Leader
Managers Use Strong Language, Not Weak Language