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Managers of the 21st century should learn to deviate from the out of date "command and control" style, which is what poorly-trained managers continue to use today, as this often results in poor productivity and staff retention. Make the most of this promotion, rather than swim or sink as what many companies simply allow to ensue by not giving formal training to first time managers.
Managers from the top global companies agree on the following advices for first time managers:
- Develop time-management skills - being in this position means being grilled left and right by the needs of your team, a prodding superior, clients, and everyone else you need to work with on a daily basis. Without appropriate skills in managing your time, you might end up being blown up by work, unmet deadlines, and stress.
- Understand the business you operate - to effectively manage your team, you must take time to understand your business in detail to identify boosting techniques and what could lead it to a downturn.
- Be honest about what you know and don't know - instead, find out what you don't know and discover ways to learn about them.
- Don't stay in isolation in the office - on your first day as your team's new manager, meet each member of the team and ask for their concerns, and discover what motivates them.
- Don't expect employees to be perfect - Be understanding of your employees' shortcomings. Ensure, though, that lessons are learned from each mistake and that employees don't do the same mistake twice or thrice.
- Learn to delegate tasks efficiently
- Practice active listening skills
- Continue with self-training and development
- If you got this position from a promotion, dispel tensions about this promotion by speaking to your team members
- Don't take all the credit.
- Focus on earning people's respect, not on becoming everyone's friend.
First time managers should know that they are the liaison between employees and upper management, so hearing both sides and adapting to both is an important step to effective management. Learning how to handle these relationships goes a long way. Here are a few more tips:
- Gain the confidence and respect of senior management
- Identify and resolve problems, rather than ignoring them
- Question past unproductive or debilitating practices
- Create a sense of urgency
- Research all sides of any issue thoroughly
- Decide - never waiver
- Ensure your services are well funded
- Take initiative - see what has to be done
Most rookie managers make the mistakes of avoiding confrontations with poor performers and rewarding mediocrity, and failing to recognize good work. Also, focusing only on mistakes rather than the learning opportunities that resulted from them can put a negative toll on your business and management.
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