9 hints for novice managers
Being a new manager In the UK at least, people are often promoted because of subject matter skills rather than management skill.
It’s common to hear from ex-soccer players who have gone from playing to managing say that it is very difficult going from “one of the lads” to telling someone they aren’t in the team for a big match.
So how can a new manager start a management career without alienating previous colleagues and friends?
1. There is no going back - the relationship has fundamentally changed. People will expect YOU to solve problems.
2. Keep your celebrations private. Some colleagues may have been unsuccessful at the interview or worse still, may not have been given an interview.
3. Think about how you talk to these people and how they talk back. Depending on where you work, shouting across to someone at the other side of the room may no longer be appropriate. You might have a desk in a different part of the building or maybe your own office. Never under estimate the power of either!
4.Consider how and where you socialise with people who still do what you used to do. Getting drunk every Friday night is probably not a wise move if you want respect on Monday morning (but that depends on your industry…)
5. Try to sport when they are testing you. Like it or not, people you used to sit alongside will try to test you out. Will you go down to skeleton staff levels when the it’s almost holiday time? Who will cover the office if you do?
6. Work out a strategy to deal with being “tested”. Your new staff will “test” you – work out (even subconsciously) how far they can push it. You must work out how to deal with this or they will tread all over right you from day 1. You could pick a few things which you will not move on. These could include, cover out of hours or maximum number of coffee breaks. Don’t tell your workers what these are though and they won’t work you out as quickly.
7. Make sure you know your subject matter. Make your motto “If you don’t know something, know where to find out” Staff will test you on this also.
8. Give praise in public, criticise behind closed doors. This is basic and you will need to be on your guard not to be drawn into a public debate or discussion on a controversial subject or one you are not confident discussing.
9. Don’t take everything on yourself This is easier said that done (especially if the vacancy has been carried for some time). Pause a while- (if the vacancy HAS been there some time, another couple of days won’t make much difference. If you work out what needs to be done BEFORE jumping in, YOU are likely to remain sane and healthy rather than buckling under the pressure with a few weeks.
Conclusion Being a newbie manager can be daunting but very rewarding. To summarise,the key thing is managing the changing relationship between you and your colleagues.
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