You worked hard, did a great job, and got promoted? Congratulations! However, you also need to remember that becoming a manager will bring challenges you never faced as an employee. This transition is not easy. In fact, one study showed it's almost as stressful as a divorce.
Lindsey Pollak, author of "Becoming a Boss," says that everyone makes mistakes, and there are some "classic mistakes" that new bosses often make. Here is a list of 7 common mistakes managers make and methods to help you avoid them:
1. MAINTAIN THE MINDSET OF A STAR
People are often promoted because they are significantly better than others at their job. But once you're in a management position, "your job is no longer about being a star with your contributions and achievements. Your job is now to manage through the successes of others," Pollak says. This is a major shift in thinking, and unfortunately, many new managers "continue trying to do their old jobs and be a manager at the same time."
As a result, you'll have twice the workload you used to. The company can't help you find a mindset coach, but the good news is there are plenty of articles and books on leadership readily available. Learn from them and find ways to motivate everyone towards a greater goal.
2. DOING WORK FOR SUBORDINATES
This mistake stems from the very nature of a highly dedicated individual. New managers often respond to direct reports with, “Let me do this for you,” Pollak says. But if you hate being micromanaged, you can imagine that nobody else likes it either, and the time spent micromanaging will leave you with nothing left to lead. “Micromanagement is the perfect combination of disasters, which is why so many people dislike their managers.”
3. Not understanding people
“How you begin managing is just as important as how you are received by your team,” Pollak says. In particular, “Don’t stand behind technology.” While email communication may be easier and more convenient today, “in people management, direct communication remains crucial.”
4. FEELING INSECURE
As a manager, you want to be approachable and trustworthy in the eyes of your employees. Unfortunately, the way you approach this can actually destroy your credibility, Pollak shared. You don't need to worry about being younger than many of the people you're managing. If you're older than them, don't worry about how less tech-savvy you are. "Don't sabotage yourself in a multi-generational work environment," Pollak said. You can respect others without lowering yourself.
5. Eager to Change Things
When you take on a management role, you'll want to change things. But don't do that unless your task involves replacing an entire department. What you need to do is inspire people to follow your vision and convince them to work towards it. Respect everyone's experience and wisdom and listen to their advice (even if you don't always need it).
6. DON'T AIM FOR VICTORIES RIGHT FROM THE START.
Now you're in charge. Achieving some early successes after your promotion will convince your team that you're serious about moving them forward. For example, eliminating a tedious meeting, Pollak says – it's something everyone hates and has long had to live with its futility. Or you could surprise everyone by having breakfast prepared at the Monday morning meeting. But remember, these actions must all start with a positive attitude.
7. NOT TAKING TIME FOR FOCUSED THINKING
Sometimes, new leaders become too focused on their new role. They work long hours dealing with the crisis, but never take the time to think strategically. A better approach is to “think like the employees you manage,” Pollak shared. If you’re going to spend an hour a day on live reports, then spend an hour a day developing your best skills so you can address your own problems before they “explode.”
Source: Saga.vn
