Becoming a manager is a huge career milestone. Whether you were promoted or just landed a job at a new company, you’re probably equal parts excited and terrified.
Working in a supervisory role is a huge adjustment, but you can do it. Mistakes will be made, so cut yourself some slack and vow to learn from every situation. In no time at all, you’ll develop your own managerial groove. Until then, get off on the right foot by following these tips.
Do: Learn How to Delegate
As a new manager, you’re out to make a great impression. Wanting to keep a close watch on your output makes sense, but trying to do it all yourself will quickly lead to burnout. You have an incredible team of people working for you, so learn their strengths and delegate work accordingly.
Avoid the temptation to micromanage, and allow people to complete work their own way. If the final product doesn’t meet your standards, teach the employee how to do better next time.
Don’t: Put Your Success Ahead of Team Triumphs
Bad managers take credit for great work completed by their employees, which never ends well. Now that you’re leading a team, put the common good first. When your team wins, you win, so there’s no need to separate yourself from the pack. Humble leaders always shine the brightest.
Do: Treat Employees With Kindness
Many new managers try to gain respect by ruling with an iron fist; however, making employees fear you won’t work. Respect must be earned, so garner it by being nice to your team. Don’t behave like a pushover, but listen to their ideas, compliment good work and make them feel comfortable coming to you with questions, comments and concerns.
Don’t: Make Unfair Assumptions
Some employees on your team probably have a better reputation around the company than others, but don’t allow this to cloud your judgment. You’ve never managed any of these people, so they deserve a clean slate. Start everyone out on equal footing and judge them only on their current behavior.
Do: Lead by Example
It’s hard for employees to take your rules seriously if you’re not willing to follow them. Set the right tone by adhering to your own guidelines. For example, if you require people to be at work by a certain time each morning, make sure you’re doing the same. This will help you become a manager your employees genuinely like and respect.
Now that you’re a supervisor, you’re in charge of hiring. Get it right every time by joining forces with Wood Staffing. Contact us today to gain access to top Northern Indiana and Southwestern Michigan talent!
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