How to become a business manager | MCI Institute

Heads up to all you future managers out there—management roles in Australia are expected to grow by over 32% by 2026, adding more than 28,000 new jobs to the workforce! It’s a clear sign demand is rising, and you’re in the right place to find out how to step into one of those roles.

So, what does a business manager actually do? In short, they help keep things running and, more importantly, growing. From overseeing daily operations to guiding teams and shaping long-term strategies, business managers play a central role in helping organisations thrive.

If you’re ready to lead, influence and make a real impact day to day, this guide will help you learn everything you need to know about how to become a business manager in Australia.

Why choose a career in business management?

A career in business management offers far more than just steady employment. It’s an exciting, fast-moving career that’s packed with opportunities to lead, innovate and solve complex challenges. In this role, you’ll be at the heart of key decisions that help businesses stay competitive and thrive.

That all sounds fantastic, but what exactly is it about business management that attracts so many people?

• • Jobs everywhere: No matter the size or industry, from small startups to huge corporations, businesses always need skilled managers to lead teams and get things done.
• • Clear growth path: You might start in an entry-level role, but with time and experience, you can climb the ladder to senior positions like operations manager, business director, or even CEO.
• • Flexibility across industries: Whether you’re interested in retail, healthcare, finance or technology, the skills you learn will open doors across a wide range of fields.
• • Great earning potential: Management roles often come with solid salaries and bonuses, rewarding your leadership and business smarts.
• • Skills that stick with you: You’ll build abilities like strategic thinking, effective communication and project management, which are all invaluable skills no matter where your career takes you.

Key steps to become a business manager and excel

Although there’s no one-size-fits-all pathway to becoming a business manager, there are key steps that can set you up for success. Here’s how to get started:

1. 1. Complete a relevant qualification

Like any great career, business management starts with the right foundation. That means getting qualified first. A solid education not only builds your confidence but also shows future employers you’re serious about your career goals.

MCI Institute’s Certificate IV in Business and Diploma of Business are both nationally recognised courses designed to give you real-world, practical skills you can use from day one in your business career. You'll explore core areas, including:

• • Business operations and strategic planning;
• • Project management essentials;
• • Effective communication and team leadership;
• • Budgeting and financial basics.

Whether you’re new to the workforce or looking to move up, these courses are a smart way to get started. And since they’re delivered 100% online, you can study when and where it suits you, without putting the rest of your life on hold.

1. 2. Gain practical work experience

While theory gives you the tools, gaining experience through hands-on work is what truly brings it all to life. Practical experience is one of the best ways to grow your skills and prove your capability as a future business manager.

Look for opportunities such as:

• • Entry-level positions working in administration, sales or customer service;
• • Internships or structured work placements during your studies;
• • Volunteer leadership positions in community organisations or clubs.

1. 3. Build essential business management skills

Being a successful business manager isn’t just about knowing the theory. The best business managers know how to blend technical knowledge with strong interpersonal and leadership skills. 

From strategic thinking and project management to communication and decision-making, developing a strong skillset is a must. We’ll break down the key business management skills you'll need in the next section.

1. 4. Pursue further study (optional but beneficial)

A certificate or diploma gives you the qualifications to launch your business career, but further study can take you even further. Some business managers choose to expand their professional development with advanced degrees in business, such as a Bachelor of Business or an MBA.

Pursuing additional education can expand your expertise in areas like finance, organisational leadership and corporate strategy. This makes it a great option if you’re aiming for executive-level roles or want to specialise in a particular area of business.

What skills do you need to succeed as a business manager?

Now that you know the steps, let’s talk about the skills that business managers require to create meaningful results:

Core business skills

• • Project management: Managing a successful project means juggling timelines, budgets and people. Great managers know how to keep the big picture in focus without losing sight of the details.
• • Financial literacy: Whether you’re setting budgets or reading a profit and loss statement, understanding the financial side of a business is key. It’s how you make informed decisions and keep things sustainable.
• • Marketing fundamentals: You don’t need to be a marketing expert, but knowing the basics, like how to identify your audience and promote your offering, can help you position your business more effectively and drive growth.
• • Data analysis: Today’s top business managers are data-savvy. Knowing how to interpret reports, spot trends and turn insights into action will give you a huge advantage when it comes to making informed decisions.

Important people skills

• • Clear communication: As a manager, excellent communication skills are essential. You're the link between your team and the bigger picture. That means explaining ideas, giving feedback and keeping everyone aligned.
• • Leadership: This goes beyond giving instructions. Strong leadership involves motivating your team, setting the tone and creating an environment where people can do their best work.
• • Problem-solving: Unexpected challenges will pop up, but that’s just part of the job. What sets great managers apart from average ones is their ability to think on their feet and find practical, workable solutions.
  • Time management: With competing priorities and tight deadlines, staying organised is non-negotiable in the business management world. Strong time management helps you get things done without burning out.

Ready to start your business management journey?

Launching your career in business management is within reach. And MCI Institute’s flexible, nationally recognised business courses can give you the edge you need.

MCI’s 100% online courses are designed to fit around your life—so you can study anytime, anywhere. You can start by building essential skills with the Certificate IV in Business, or take things further with the Diploma of Business to sharpen your expertise and boost your career potential.

A rewarding career full of leadership opportunities and exciting growth potential is waiting for you. Explore MCI Institute’s business courses today and start shaping your future as a business manager!

Need assistance to start your learning journey?

You are in the right place! Please book a free career consultation with one of our course advisors. They will help you define your goals and match you with the skills and training that will guide you towards success.