Whether you’re a recently promoted executive with management responsibility for the first time or a solo entrepreneur growing your business and building a new team, management can be daunting. If you have a new opportunity to manage and you’re feeling daunted here are some tips to help.
1. Set up good communication systems from the start
The easiest way to build a team is to have great communications embedded from the get-go. This can be as simple as weekly update meetings and check ins, one to one meetings backed up with responsive and considered communications. It’s important to try and see what works and follow through in all aspects of communications.
2. Delegate effectively
Don’t just dump tasks on team members but delegate according to their role and expertise . If you’re managing a multi-disciplinary team, it’s crucial to get this right. Some leaders allocate exciting roles to their favourites and/or dump the tedious tasks on those most likely to diligently get on with it irrespective of their job title. This undermines your credibility, and nothing screams ‘inept leader’ than delegation done badly.
3. Don’t micromanage
Micromanaging is one of the key ways to lose the respect and trust of your team. It shows fear, emotional ineptitude, and poor judgement. If you have a high performing team and they understand their roles and responsibilities, let them get on with it. If you need to meddle, it speaks rather negatively to your hiring decisions or worse shows an interfering and unpleasant nature. This will not bring out the best in competent people and will allow incompetent people to be unaccountable.
4. Get regular training
Investing in your continuing professional development (CPD) is so important. This will help you keep abreast of current issues, update your skills, and keep you up to date on policy and best practice in your sector and improve your management practice.
5. Join a network of peers
Find a forum or network to share experiences and tips with your peers. Networking is a great way to diffuse the stresses and tensions that will invariably arise. It’s also great to know you’re not alone in a safe space where you can access case studies, insights, and tips.
Foe help and support with any aspect of management email info@dynamicdevelopmentconsulting.co.uk
