Must-Read Tips for Every First-Time Manager

Taking on a management role for the first time can feel exciting at best and, at times, completely overwhelming. In order to have success as a new manager it’s important to understand the ways in which you can be most effective. If you’ve just accepted a management position and are looking for guidance, keep these ideas in mind:

Be transparent with your team whenever possible

Your employees don’t need to know every detail about your worries or thoughts pertaining to your job, but it’s important to clue them in about big things going on within the company. Giving them insight about long-term strategy and goals, for instance, helps them to feel like a more integral part of the team. Don’t underestimate the importance of being open and honest with those who report to you. No one wants to feel like they’re being kept in the dark.

Build strong (but appropriate) relationships with your team

As a manager, you want your employees to feel as if they can come to you with questions and concerns pertaining to work. However, be careful not to cross the line and go from boss to pal. Blurring this line can make it hard to manage your team effectively, so be highly aware of this issue. It’s great to be concerned with how your employees are doing, but you’re there to manage, not to be a BFF.

Be heavy-handed with positive reinforcement

Too many managers are quick to criticize and forget to compliment. Don’t be one of them. If someone has done something above and beyond what was required, acknowledge it and thank them for their contributions. A little positive reinforcement goes a long way, particularly when people are working long hours.

Address problems head-on

No one likes to have a difficult conversation with their employee, particularly if you’re genuinely fond of that team member. However, delaying these discussions and hoping the problem solves itself only makes the situation worse. If you see an issue brewing, address it head on. Whether it’s a team member’s routine tardiness, or sloppy work from someone you thought you could trust, deal with the problem before it causes other, bigger issues.

What advice do you have for first-time managers? Share it with us in the comments!

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