Being a manager is exciting, but it can also be pretty intimidating. You want to lead your team to success, yet there are so many personalities to manage and so many obstacles to overcome. And you’re worried about making a bad first impression and getting off on the wrong foot, which just paralyzes you with fear. But these steps and the right attitude can ensure you avoid common pitfalls of management.
Don’t micromanage
If you want your team to be engaged in what they do and confident in their own abilities, give them the freedom to do so. If you’re looking over their shoulder all day every day, they’ll be afraid to make any real decisions or mistakes. Plus, if you’re the one calling all the shots, they’re not really invested in their work. Instead, give them space and empower them with resources and support.
Establish rapport
You might already have a decent relationship with your team, especially if you were promoted from within the company. Regardless of whether you’ve known them for years or you’re just getting to know them, treat your employees with the same genuine care you would treat your friends. If you can cultivate positive, sincere relationships with your employees, they’ll learn to trust you and that you care about them and their career trajectories. In return, they’ll work hard for you and stay loyal to your leadership.
Don’t assume all is well
No news is good news, right? Not necessarily. Don’t assume just because you haven’t heard about any complaints or issues there aren’t any. Sometimes people keep quiet because they’re scared or intimidated or they simply assume you already know. Engage with your team in regular conversations and feedback sessions so you can hear the latest updates, concerns and ideas. You might even facilitate a valuable brainstorming or problem-solving session.
Don’t compare
Your management style depends on you. You can learn from other managers before you – learn from their good examples and be sure not to repeat their mistakes. Ultimately, you must use your own self-awareness, empathy, adaptability and flexibility to adjust to each personality you manage and take control. The best training is on the job – no amount of leadership books, articles or YouTube videos can prepare you as well as building on your own successes, making your own mistakes, testing, reflecting and trying again and again.
Establish clear boundaries
You’ll need to figure out when you need to step in as manager and when you can allow your employees to figure things out on their own. Outline your responsibilities, accountabilities and the limits of your authority, and communicate that clearly to your team.
For more tips on maximizing your employees’ potential and positioning them for success, contact Pridestaff Thousand Oaks today.
