Here Are the Top 4 To-Do’s as You Begin Your Management Career

Having all dealt with managers, we all have moments where we think we could run the operation different or even more effectively, but what happens when that moment becomes a reality? Through either hard work or opportunity, you’ve found yourself in a management position with a team of people looking to you.

In this moment, it can be terrifying, exhilarating and confusing. There will by dynamic shifts, longer hours and changes to how you’re treated in the office, to name a few differences. Instead of getting overwhelmed as a first-time manager, remember these four to-dos:

Learn everything

One of the worst ways to start the job is by walking in and leading as if you know everything. Regardless if you’ve worked at a company for 20 years or 20 minutes, take the time to truly learn everything you can about the company to help you succeed.

Talk to other employees about the history of the department, past strategies and ask them what relevant information you need to perform at the top of your game. Learn the roles of your team so you’re asking the right person – this not only cuts back on wasted time finding solutions but shows them you’re dedicated to them individually.

Find someone to guide you

Learning everything doesn’t remove the opportunity for a wildcard to be thrown into the mix. There will be times you have questions that can’t be answered simply by what you know; you’ll need guidance about dealing with a specific issue or personality. Instead of forging ahead alone, find a mentor to continually learn from and counsel you in difficult situations.

Develop good relationships with employees

If you’re working in a department and promoted to manager, one of the first steps to take is developing boundaries with colleagues who are friends. If they now technically work beneath you, you have to make sure the lines are clearly established to avoid potential insubordination or rumors of favoritism.

Additionally, you want to be someone your team can approach, not feel you’re always unavailable. Something as simple as leaving your door open and going out to talk to people so they can get comfortable with seeing you and approaching you if they need assistance.

Always listen and adapt

It’s likely you were selected to be a manager because you’re qualified, but that doesn’t mean your ideas are always the best. When trying new things out with your team, give them space to fail or succeed and ask for feedback. This is good for your team to see you’re open to other ideas and good for you to remember you aren’t always right.

Looking to advance? Trust LaJoy Group

As a top employment agency in Michigan, LaJoy Group is here to match your qualifications to our employer partner’s needs. We work in a variety of industries to connect top talent with the top companies, and we’re here to help you find your next career move. Contact us today to learn more about why you can trust us.

 

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