Challenges new managers face and how to overcome them

No matter how many books you read before being promoted to manager, at the beginning you will experience a period in which you make a lot of mistakes. Which is okay, as long as you learn from them. New managers without experience of managing people face unique challenges they must overcome at the outset of their new role. Here is a list of them, along with some tips on how to overcome them as quickly and smoothly as possible.

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This list was published by the Center for Creative Leadership website.

Overcoming the role of a mere colleague

New leaders are often promoted from regular team members. Thus they frequently find themselves managing people who previously were their colleagues. If this is the case, do not be too harsh on your new subordinates, but at the same time clearly set new boundaries. Take advantage of the fact you know these people very well by using this knowledge when communicating with them individually.

Being responsible for the work of others

Another thing a new manager is not necessarily used to is being responsible for the work of others. In this case it is of course necessary the manager communicate their expectations to subordinates and help them achieve the given goals.

Delegation of work

Many new managers make the mistake of taking on too much work themselves and not delegating enough to their subordinates. One of the biggest tasks of a new manager is therefore learning how to delegate work in a quick and effective manner.

Communication with management and other team managers

For a manager, communication with the rest of the company is different than it is for a regular employee. A new manager must communicate in both directions: towards their team and towards management. Thus the manager serves as a kind of link between management and team. it is also advisable to establish good relationships with other team leaders from the very start, as you will have intensive contact with them too.

Development of subordinates

An extremely important task of a manager is employee development. A new manager must learn to understand their subordinates. You should not neglect their development, education and career advancement.



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Article source Center for Creative Leadership - CCL® website
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