Wise Tips for New Managers

I wish that being promoted into a managerial role required training or maybe even a license so we could avoid the excess of poor managers that are infiltrating the workforce. While it would be ideal to groom new managers for their new role, we know this is rarely the case. Roberta Matuson recently released a great book: Suddenly in Charge: Managing Up, Managing Down, Succeeding All Around.

Matuson states that one of the most challenging tasks facing new managers is striking a balance between managing down – dealing with employees, and managing up – dealing with bosses. In a recent article from The Glass Hammer online, here are 5 tips she shares to help newbie managers shine from day one.

• Look up before you fall down. Even though you may be overwhelmed trying to figure out the tactical pieces of your new job, be aware of what is happening above you. Build relationships with peers and those above you. This strategy will help you obtain the resources to be successful.
• Your success depends on the success of others. You must shift your focus from me to we in order to be successful. You will be evaluated on your ability to create and maintain a highly engaged team that is willing to give their all. Sit down with each of your new reports and find out what they need to do their jobs well. Don’t give immediate promises but listen and take notes and refer back to these frequently to make sure their needs stay on top of your mind.
• Choose respect over love. It is better to be respected by your team than loved. Your employees want you to be their boss, not their friend. They depend on you for honest feedback and you can’t be effective if you are trying to make them like you. Decline the invitations to socialize after hours – keep the relationship purely professional.
• Be credible. Perception is everything so be mindful of how your words and actions have direct impact on how others perceive you daily. Credibility and trust go hand-in-hand. Do what you say you will do and when you cannot fulfill a promise, be ready to explain why. While the team may not like the bad news, they will appreciate that you have the guts to tell them and this earns you credibility.
• Surround yourself with the right people. Hire for fit – train for skill and whenever possible, hire people who are better than you. If you make a hiring mistake, rectify it quickly. Be prepared for new hires so they immediately feel connected to the organization.

So even if training doesn’t happen for every new manager, I’d like to suggest a copy of Roberta’s new book!