I am entering my first management role this quarter...

Question

And while I think I'll do a fine job, I am worried about the things I won't know to prepare for. What is something you wish you knew about management beforehand?

Elina Beck · Answer

The jump from Individual Contributor to Manager is one of the most important and stressful in your career.  One of the hardest challenges is to delegate, particularly if you already know how to do something.  Give a person the end result you want but refrain from telling an expert how to do their job - trust that they can do it themselves.  If they are lost, provide examples or direction, guidance.  If you find that you are constantly doing someone's job for them, one of you is in the wrong position.

Secondly, don't be afraid to ask your experts for suggestions.   As manager, you make the decisions, but your experts can help you make smart ones.  Asking for background, or suggestions is not a sign of weakness, it is a sign of confidence.

Keri Wilson · Answer

I would say, get to know your staff - individually.  What makes them tick?  What motivates them?  How do they respond to your management techniques? What do they want to be when they grow up?  What are their work styles?

Set up regular meetings with each of your team (this can seem burdensome if you have a large team, but I promise you, it's a great way to get to know them and for them to get to know you).  Don't make it all about work (although status meetings are important).  Try giving them a topic in advance like: 'a few of my favorite things' or 'three things you want me to know about you' or 'first job I ever had and what I learned'.  This gives them a chance to share who they are, and for you to gain insights.

Whether we like it or not, as managers, we've magically become authority figures, even if we don't feel that way, and your staff will look at you in a hundred ways you've never expected.  The sooner you get to know them and see their strengths, opportunities, and how you can put them together in groups and partnerships to get the best out of everyone, the sooner you'll be a leader, and not just a manager.

Barb Hansen · Answer

What is something i wish I knew about management beforehand?

Becoming a great manager is not related to title change, it is a journey of learning, humility and being mentored by other great managers and great managers are not born, they develop the skills and tools they need over time by learning, and listening.

If you company offers management training classes, take them all!

Gillianne Hetrick · Answer

I agree with the advice given that people are complex (not just worker ants) and that learning to delegate is key (I can do it faster, but as a manager sometimes I don’t have time to do work and my teams work- that’s why I have a team).

My addition would be you are a positional leader by your title. You are a leader by earning people’s trust and respect.  One of my favorite leadership authors is John Maxwell and I often re-read the 360 Leader and remind myself that management is more than a title.

beth@nextgreatstep.com · Answer

I agree. The best strategy is to ask questions and understand what is going on before making decisions or mandates. Listen, listen and listen some more before you make decisions on direction and what you think is the 'right' thing to do. Good luck.

SLCurry · Answer

I’m going into management after working for a company for 12 years and I’m nervous but these comments really help me get some insight of my new role

Krista Cojocar · Answer

Agree with the above. Know your team, individually. Everyone comes from different backgrounds, culture, learnings, knowledge, etc. and all are unique. Learning their strengths, goals, how they learn, and even their personal interests, will help both you and your team connect on a real basis and can learn from one another.

Listening and guiding your team, as well as being transparent with them (effective communications) are some of the strengths that will keep your team loyal.

Congrats on your new role!

I am entering my first management role this quarter...

You're invited.

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