What are the Top 5 Do’s and Don’ts for New managers?
Congratulations! You’ve earned the promotion, or put on your first managerial hat, and now ready to face a new set of challenges. Navigating the transition from individual contributor to leader can be daunting! I am not trying to put fear in you, it’s an amazing feeling to lead people. And you can never take it for granted.
I have been there too managing self to managing people, the path isn’t that simple but the experiences you learn is just great.
I believe that mastering these top 5 do’s and don’ts will set you on the path to becoming a great manager:
DO’s
1. Invest in Relationships (The Power of Connection)
Do: Connect with each team member individually through your One on One meetings. 86% of employees cite poor relationships with managers as the reason for leaving a job (Source: Gallup). From my point of view, sometimes it’s not just the managers problem it’s the organizations too and the restrictions it throws upon their managers.
Schedule one-on-ones, understand their strengths and aspirations, and build trust. Indeed it is an opportunity to let them understand who you are as an Individual and build good rapport instead of just ordering what they must do.
Related Article: The Power of Regular One 2 One Meetings
Don’t: Don’t be an aloof figurehead. Remember, effective leadership is about people, not just projects.
2. Embrace Feedback, Foster Growth
Do: Create a culture of open, two-way feedback. 75% of employees want regular feedback, yet only 28% receive it (Source: OfficePulse). Encourage team members to provide feedback on your communication, leadership style, and project approaches. Not just once keep it constant and listen what they want to say about you. I know it sucks but it’s important to understand what your people think of you.
Don’t: Do not shy away from feedback. View it as an opportunity to learn and grow, ultimately benefiting both you and your team.
3. Delegate, Empower, Don’t Micromanage (The Trusting Hand)
Do: Delegate tasks based on strengths and interests. 62% of employees are disengaged because they don’t use their skills (Source: Gallup). Provide clear expectations, offer support, and trust your team to deliver.
Don’t: For god sake do not Micromanage. It stifles creativity, demotivates team members, and wastes everyone’s time. Remember, you hired competent individuals for a reason!
Related Article: Empowering Leadership: How to Reduce Micromanagement and Empower Your Team
4. Communicate Clearly, Consistently
Do: Be an open and transparent communicator. 57% of employees feel their company doesn’t effectively communicate changes (Source: PWC). Share updates regularly, answer questions honestly, and use multiple channels to reach everyone.
I think I am quite lucky as I have learnt a lot from my team members, as a manager it is important to learn from your people. I believe that everyone is unique and there is something to learn from each individual. Approach them with an open mindset you can learn something new.
Don’t: Never leave your team in the dark. Poor communication breeds confusion, frustration, and ultimately, hinders project success.
5. Champion Your Team, Celebrate Successes (The Recognition Ritual)
Do: Publicly acknowledge individual and team achievements. 70% of employees crave recognition for their work (Source: BambooHR). Celebrate milestones, say thank you, and express appreciation for their efforts.
Don’t: Never let hard work go unnoticed. A simple pat on the back goes a long way in boosting morale and motivating your team to excel.
Please note that: Leadership is a journey, not a destination. Focusing on these do’s and don’ts, you will build strong relationships, cultivate a positive work environment, and empower your team to achieve remarkable results. Now go forth, conquer your managerial journey, and become the leader your team deserves!
References to write this article
- Harvard Business Review: https://hbr.org/2022/06/5-pieces-of-advice-for-first-time-managers
- Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2022/06/22/thinking-about-becoming-a-manager-10-things-youll-need-to-succeed/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/advice/0/youre-new-manager-how-can-you-learn-lead-cnmxc
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