PAPERmaking! FROM THE PUBLISHERS OF PAPER TECHNOLOGY ® Volume 8, Number 3, 2022
1. Hunger to learn Open your mind to learning and growing as a manager. Avoid making the mistake of more experienced managers who are set in their rigid ways of “my way is the only way”. You must be willing to adapt to changes and new technological advances. You will have worked hard for your promotion and have ample expertise in your chosen field, but you may find that you lack self-confidence in your ability to lead. Be prepared to learn from others – including your new team. It will help you grow into the role faster. 2. Communicate Your Plan “A goal without a plan is just a wish.” One of the best management quotes to date. Always keep your team fully informed of project goals, priorities and important deadlines. When employees lack planning information, it can raise levels of distrust and anxiety. Effective communication will be essential in both establishing your credibility and gaining the support of your team, so be sure to provide clear direction and always welcome questions and feedback from others. 3. Set a good example Your team will look to you for setting standards. When writing this blog on the ultimate leadership tips for new managers, management teams often forget to lead by example and demand too much of their team. This will cause arguments as your team won’t feel your demands are justified if you are not following the demands too. Demand from yourself the same level of professionalism and dedication that you expect from others. If you expect the team to be upbeat and friendly, then make sure you are! Creating an environment where the energy is positive and ideas are heard are the core ingredients for a thriving team. 4. Encourage team feedback Have an open-door policy with your team. Being approachable is key. Sometimes employees are unwilling to speak up about certain issues unless they are prompted, particularly if they fear losing their jobs. Canvass for opinions on issues such as support, training, and resources while maintaining an open-door policy so that your team knows that you are willing to listen to their concerns and ideas. 5. Recognition builds team confidence By publicly recognising the efforts and achievements of your team, you not only build up their confidence, but also encourage future contributions and effort. Praise does not always have to be formal – praising employees can be part of your day-to-day communication with your team. When conducting monthly performance reviews with your team, this is a great opportunity to convey your thoughts but also listen to your staff concerns and challenges. Many team leaders cancel appraisals when time is limited; make every effort to conduct a regular one to one employee interview. 6. Be decisive Leaders who make decisions in a timely fashion build stronger trust with their team. A quality leader needs to make decisions and stick to them. People do not feel comfortable with someone who changes his or her mind on a whim.
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Article 12 – New Manager Tips
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