Tips for first-time managers!
Previously, most first-time managers had at least 5 – 8 years of experience. Yet with start-ups and new age companies, people are becoming managers after just 1-2 years of work experience. It can be an overwhelming experience initially but also extremely rewarding. It is key to develop new skills such as listening, motivating, and coaching to leverage the team you have efficiently. If you are a first-time manager, use these tips to help you perform right.
- Develop time-management and prioritization skills
You now have your own work as well as the job of managing someone else. Set aside time to complete your own work and schedule time to work with your team. Individual time with your direct employees should also be scheduled to ensure overall career development and growth. Team time to discuss strategy, align on priorities and build a bond should also be set-up. Keep an honest watch on priorities, metrics, and any questions that might be on their mind. Use tools such as an online calendar system or offline planners to ensure your day, week and month is balanced. Give yourself enough time to look at the bigger picture and step-back as well!
2. Delegate effectively
Delegation is an art and is critical to your success as a manager. Study the strengths and development areas of your employees, assign tasks accordingly and give constant quality feedback.Reports from Inc. magazine say that 53 percent of business owners believe that they can grow their business by more than 20 percent if they delegate 10 percent of their workload to someone else. Make the most of your resources and ensure your are delegating. Timely delegation with enough buffer time will allow new resources to complete tasks even if they take longer than you might take to do the same job.3. Motivate your co-workers and build a connection
According to Harvard Business Review, about 75% of employers rate teamwork as “very important.” Try and understand your team members’ Reward great team work, communicate and address their issues with transparency. Schedule time to have fun as an organization so that people feel connected to each other. With sufficient cooperation no task will seem daunting or challenging to you and the team.
Ensure to invest in your own skills and development too! Build your knowledge by reading, attending informative guest lectures and events, getting to know new people and listening to the advice of your mentors. It is normal if you feel it is difficult to keep up with the job. It will definitely get better with practice! Good luck!
