Congratulations, you’ve recently been promoted to a management position! As you get settled into your new role, you will want to start off on the right foot. Very often, newly promoted managers make some serious mistakes in the first few months. Even those who have already worked at the company for a while, but are new to management can easily offend someone or step into a crisis without realizing it. This is especially true when trying to earn the respect of your former colleagues.
Fortunately, there are some ways that you can ease into your role as a newly-promoted manager. Use these tips to find your way.
Don’t Try to Fix Things Immediately
When you are a newly-promoted manager it’s easy to get caught in the trap of wanting to fix everything that’s wrong with your company. This is a mistake. Instead, use this time to observe what is happening from the standpoint of a manager and then ask your team for suggestions on how to improve things. Remember, your job is to bring out the best in your people and part of that is listening to them and the suggestions that they have. Only then should you make a move to change things.
Listen More Than You Speak
Managers were not born to bark orders or lecture other people. Don’t be the kind of manager that goes around sharing all your grand ideas without listening to other people. In fact, spend more time listening and asking questions to learn as a new manager. Be aware that some people may seem offish for a while because of lack of trust, but as you develop better rapport with your immediate subordinates you will find them eager to make the workplace better.
Treat Others as You Want to be Treated
It has been said that to gain respect starts with giving respect. This is especially true if you are now managing former co-workers. Demonstrate that you respect everyone and that you appreciate the talent that they bring to the table. Make sure you voice that you respect people by letting them know you are there to listen to them and to take them seriously. This is especially important if you are managing workers from other generations.
Be Accountable
Just because you are a new manager doesn’t mean that you can begin slacking off on your job. You are just as responsible and accountable for your tasks as your subordinates are. Remember, you were once in their shoes and so you need to honor this and keep your promises. Over time, your colleagues will know they can count on you and they will be more apt to view you as the outstanding manager that you are.
Does your new role involve hiring and expand your team?
Vector Technical Inc., is here to help Cleveland area employers improve retention and reduce hiring costs by providing the right person, the first time.If you are looking to hire top talent, request an employee today!