I've been a manager for nearly 30 years.
Here are some of the best tips I've picked up along the way.
- Being a manager is about serving your team, not wielding power.
- Set clear expectations early to avoid confusion.
- Get comfortable with giving and receiving feedback.
- Celebrate team successes, no matter the size.
- Be decisive, be ready to explain your decisions.
- You will make mistakes; consider them as learning opportunities.
- Listen more than you speak; it builds respect and understanding.
- Trust your team, but verify results.
- Prioritise your team's development and well-being.
- Adapt your leadership style to each team member. Learn situational leadership.
- Be approachable; optimism can change the dynamics of any interaction and a smile sets the stage.
- Communicate goals and changes clearly and promptly.
- Encourage collaboration and teamwork.
- Keep meetings focused and productive.
- Manage time effectively, both for you and your team.
- Stay professional. Even in stressful situations.
- Foster a positive, inclusive work environment.
- Be honest and transparent in your actions.
- Be vulnerable. Seek feedback on your leadership, it's invaluable.
- Stay organised; it sets the tone for your team.
- Delegate tasks wisely and empower your team with agency to succeed.
- Balance firmness with empathy.
- Always be learning. Invest in your personal growth; leadership is a journey.
- Encourage innovation and creative problem-solving.
- Remember you carry a cannon.
