4 Things for New Managers to Know

Promotions or new jobs can be both exciting yet cause apprehension. Not knowing what to expect can be a major source of anxiety. If you’re new to a supervisory or managerial role, then this can compound your stress. However, with the right mindset and attitude you can go in with a calmer and clearer state of mind. When you’re a new manager or supervisor, there are four tangible things you can do to make the process straightforward and easy for everyone to get behind.

1. First Impressions Count

While you will hopefully be working with these employees for the long term and able to build in depth relationships, first impressions are still important. Personal introductions are always suggested whenever possible as this allows your team to get to meet you early. Even a small hello can make a big difference in how you’re perceived.

If you’re taking over a team of employees you know then a somewhat formal introduction as a supervisor is still a good idea. You should base the structure of this upon your current relationship with said team. If you are transitioning roles at the same company, ensure that your focus is completely on your new duties and not your old ones.

2. Set Expectations For Yourself and Your Team

Goals, deadlines, and expectations are essential in any work environment. When you take over, even if it’s just “business as usual,” it’s always best to reinforce the expectations and workload. Explain in detail any changes you plan to institute and answer any questions that may come up. This meeting can help give the entire team a road map to use for their work going forward.

3. Managing and Contributing are Different

This one is not easy for some people to grasp. You could be the absolute best member of a team, always on time, stellar work, impeccable skills, but you could be an ineffective manager. Much of managing is trusting your team to pull their weight. That’s not to say managers and supervisors sit around doing nothing. They simply are doing work that is, generally, bigger picture. Delegating tasks to team members strengths is a skill successful managers and supervisors learn to do.

4. Build Up Your Team

There are many keys to success. When it comes to teams, the expression “a chain is only as strong as its weakest link” holds true. If one member of your team is struggling, then it can affect the entire team. A good manager does not ignore or avoid these problems. Employee development is one of the best signs of an engaged manager. By helping build up your employees skill sets, you not only improve the quality of work that your team does, but they will in turn be grateful for your investment in them.

Take these tips to heart and you and your team will be running like a well oiled machine in no time.