In large organizations, frequent job transfers between local offices or subsidiaries are common. Managers are under intense pressure to increase profits, provide better service, or meet production goals. This work can be stressful, as managers attempt to schedule work, meet deadlines, manage staff, and keep up earnings. Although the 40-hour week is standard, uncompensated overtime is often required. Substantial travel often is required of upper-level managers who may travel between national, regional, and local offices, or overseas, to monitor operations and meet with customers, staff, and other executives.
Many managers attend meetings and conferences.
The conferences provide an opportunity to meet with prospective customers, government officials and contractors, and allow managers to keep abreast of technological and managerial innovations. Long hours, including evenings and weekends, is the rule for most top executives and general managers, though their schedules may be flexible. Skills Needed The educational background necessary varies widely as the job responsibilities. Many general mangers have a bachelor s degree or higher in liberal arts or business administration. Their major often is related to the departments that they direct.