Top Tips for New Managers: How to Succeed in Your New Role
Becoming a manager is a significant achievement and an exciting opportunity to grow your career. However, it also comes with increased expectations and responsibilities. As a new manager, it is essential to establish yourself as a capable leader and gain the trust of your team. Here are eight tips to help you succeed in your new role.
1. Check Your Mindset
Remember that being promoted to a management position does not make you a better person, but it does require good judgment and the ability to handle ambiguity and emotional stress. As a new manager, you may feel pressure to prove yourself, but it is important to stay humble and open-minded. Don't let your new title go to your head, and focus on being a supportive and effective leader.
2. Realize That Your Role Is Temporary
From the perspective of your team, you are just a phase in their careers. Make it a point of pride to help your team members grow and develop so that they are better off when they eventually move on. Take the time to understand your team members' career goals and aspirations and provide opportunities for them to gain new skills and experiences.
3. Be Curious About Your Team
Establishing trust is key to being an effective manager. Take the time to get to know your team members and their unique strengths and weaknesses. Ask questions and show a genuine interest in their work and their lives. By building strong relationships with your team members, you will create a supportive and productive work environment.
4. Be Authentic and Kind
Being kind is not a weakness, but don't let anyone take advantage of you. Be ready to take swift action if someone tries to push the boundaries. As a new manager, you may feel pressure to prove your authority, but it is important to be authentic and true to yourself. Show your team members that you care about their well-being and their success.
5. Overcommunicate
You are probably only communicating enough when you feel like you are overdoing it. People have a lot on their plates, so make sure to give clear instructions and follow up to ensure that everyone is on the same page. As a new manager, it is essential to establish clear lines of communication with your team members. Don't assume that everyone knows what is expected of them. Instead, provide clear guidance and follow up regularly to ensure that everyone is on track.
6. Be Consistent
Hold everyone accountable to the same standards. People will notice if you play favorites or make exceptions. As a new manager, it can be tempting to show favoritism to certain team members. However, this can quickly erode trust and respect. To establish yourself as a fair and effective leader, hold everyone accountable to the same standards.
7. Help Your Team Do Things Right
Instead of having a "testing" mindset, set clear expectations and provide the necessary support to help your team meet them. For example, setting reminders for deadlines can help your team stay on track. As a new manager, it is your job to provide the necessary resources and support to help your team members succeed. Don't set your team up for failure by expecting them to figure everything out on their own.
8. Subject Matter Competence Is Important
Having a certain level of knowledge in your field is necessary for your credibility as a manager. However, avoid micromanaging your team members. If you are new to the field, be open to learning and willing to ask questions. As a new manager, you may feel pressure to prove your expertise, but it is essential to remember that you are there to support your team members, not to do their jobs for them.
In conclusion, being a new manager is a challenging but rewarding experience. By following these eight tips, you can establish yourself as a capable and supportive leader and help your team members achieve their full potential. Remember, being a manager is a learning experience. Take these tips to heart, but don't be afraid to make mistakes and learn from them as you grow in your role. Good luck!
