Be a great leader: tips for first-time managers

Becoming a really good manager requires not only theoretical knowledge but also practical experience. And it's precisely this experience that first-time managers naturally lack. Nevertheless, even managerial rookies can become great and effective leaders. Here are some tips on how to go about it, courtesy of Sabina Nawaz, a former HR leader at Microsoft.

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Forget the idea that one management style is "good" and another "bad"

According to FastCompany, which quotes Nawaz, it is a mistake to think one management style is inherently bad and another inherently good. Everything depends on the context, the manager’s personality, and the communication habits of the team and company. Don’t search for the one and only perfect managerial approach; instead, find a style which suits you and your personality traits.

Don't try to imitate anyone

Strive to be authentic. First-time managers often tend to mimic their favourite leadership personality, mentor, or former boss. While it’s perfectly fine to draw inspiration from your role models in certain areas, you should develop a leadership style of your own.

Learn to communicate effectively

The vast majority of issues (and opportunities for improvement) faced by new managers stem from ineffective communication. Establish a clear and high-quality communication process within your team and work together with team members to develop a system that minimises misunderstandings.

Keep in mind solid briefs and effective task delegation

Want to avoid being overwhelmed by work and at the same time help team members grow and learn new things? Then you need to master the art of delegating tasks effectively and provide your team with well-prepared briefs for the tasks and projects you assign.

Identify what causes you stress and eliminate those stressors

Everyone experiences stress from time to time. For managers, however, it’s a bigger issue than for regular employees, as increased stress can influence team atmosphere and overall productivity. Find out what causes your stress. Recognise the specific stressors that affect you negatively and do your best to eliminate them – for both your own sake and the well-being of your team.



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Article source Fast Company - leading U.S. magazine and website for managers
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