The flurry of expectations that we and others set for ourselves as managers, could confuse us and cause us to freeze. So let us try to simplify it a bit. In this video I would like to propose that there only three things you need to focus on when you get started as a new manager.
Many new managers who want to succeed in their jobs dive into guides, training and books on management. There is some incredible advice from top leaders and researchers out there. But all the management theories, tips for success, and lists of core manager responsibilities may be overwhelming.
So let us try to simplify it a bit and focus on the essential – the first simple things you need to focus on as a new manager.
And the first one is to get to know your team
One of the most significant changes you will experience when taking on a manager role is completing tasks and achieving results through other people and not individually.
And in order to be able to align your goals and ensure that your team is working in the direction you set for them, you need to build relationships with them. And the first step – get to know them.
Have individual meetings with them in which you openly talk about yourselves. Ask questions and make sure you understand what drives them. Talk about their responsibilities, their personal goals, aspirations and values. Find out how they feel in the team and what challenges they experience. What support they need from you.
And while you are getting to know your team, you can start working on your next task.
Get to know the work
As a line manager your team and your stakeholders will expect a certain level of subject matter expertise from you. Even if you have done similar work in the past, there are probably company specific differences you need to acquaint yourself with. This is also true if you have previously been an individual contributor within the same team. You are probably aware of certain parts of the work process, but now you need to familiarize yourself with the full picture.
Dig into the processes, technology, metrics and expected results and the main players that your team interacts with.
All this knowledge will help you with some of the subsequent tasks we will talk about in our next videos such as process improvement and removing obstacles for your team. But for starters, it will make you feel more confident in your new role.
Build relationships with your stakeholders
Your team interacts daily with clients, partners and other teams and as a manager, you will be the face of the team in all those interactions. Each of those stakeholders has their own interests and objectives in their work with your team which you need to understand. You also need to learn about your common projects in depth. To maintain the sense of consistency in the relationship also talk to them about the past mutual successes and the painpoints in the collaboration. Later you will build on the successes and work together on alleviating the pain points, and try to match your interests and achieve win-win results. For now – get to know each other and start building trust by asking questions and taking interest in your mutual cooperation and success.
And this is all you need to do to get on the road to success.
Learn how to prepare for your first team meeting here.
Talk to you soon!