You're a new manager. How can you get your team to respect you?

Before we look at the role and it's obligations and effects, the first thing to understand as a manager that the respect is not bestowed, it is earned. The same way you climb the corporate ladder and became a manager, it is with similar steps that you earn respect: through self development, collegial regard and appreciation, teamwork and dedication and growth in all proffesional spheres. Your role is then to empower your team and assist them in advancing, thus assisting yourself. Take responsibility for your decisions and your teams successes and mistakes, and do not fall into traps of micromanaging, blaming culture or similar toxic management. A manager is a leader, and the higher your team goes, the higher you will go.

Stepping into a managerial role, I learned respect isn't commanded; it's cultivated. Initially, I tried to prove my worth by taking on tasks myself. Yet, I quickly realized my job wasn't to be the main doer but the main enabler. Shifting focus, I aimed to empower my team, facilitating their growth and learning rather than dictating every step. I embraced the role of an influencer, not a controller, setting clear expectations and trusting them to deliver. This approach not only boosted our performance but also fostered a culture of mutual respect and collaboration. Remember, true leadership is about elevating others, not showcasing your own expertise.

Know the role means know all boundaries of your role may it be scope and expectation within team, within organisation, with external stakeholders. Clarity on role and confidence on own capability will make goal achievable.

As the leader of the team, it is important to recognize and respect each member's unique contribution. By acknowledging the work and dedication of your colleagues, you are demonstrating how much you value their presence. Team members not only need to feel appreciated but know that their efforts are making an impact. Show them you notice by offering words of thanks or an encouraging pat on the back. Lead with positivity and inspiration, inspiring everyone to rise to their full potential – together - and watch what amazing things can be achieved!

As a new manager, I quickly learned that respect stems from trust. Initially, I focused on directives and outcomes, overlooking the power of transparency and empathy. Shifting gears, I started sharing our vision and goals openly, inviting feedback and ideas. I ensured my actions matched my words, admitting mistakes and learning from them. This openness showed my team I valued them beyond their output, respecting their insights and contributions. Gradually, trust grew, laying a strong foundation for respect. Remember, trust isn't just given; it's earned through consistent, honest, and caring leadership.

Transitioning to a managerial role, I realized respect is earned, not given. I decided to lead by example, embodying the work ethic, values, and standards I expected from my team. Demonstrating willingness to learn, take risks, and shoulder responsibilities, I challenged the status quo, showcasing my competence and decision-making. This approach not only solidified my credibility but also inspired my team to mirror these behaviors. Leading by example transformed our dynamic, proving that the essence of effective leadership lies in action, not just in title. Remember, your actions speak volumes to your team about the leader you aspire to be.

New manager can be role model for team with his/ her behaviour, stands, confidence and competency. Ownership and Accountability goes hands in hand and gives comfort to team. This aids for innovation, out of box thinking from team. Walk the talk will enforced the leadership quality. Openness for feedback, giving and receiving both, is one of the important factor to collaborate with team.

Leadership isn't about cowering from the back of the room or pushing people around; rather, it's about taking ownership of how we live our lives every day and embodying traits that others can look up to. When we lead by example, this is an indication that we believe what we do is important, and sets an example to those around us that being a role model means living with values of integrity, accountability, and responsibility. We can never forget that each day presents us with opportunities to grow in ourselves, as well as those who will come behind us.

Learning the skills needed in the art of effective communication is not some mythical set of powers bestowed to select charming individuals. It takes practice and a few sets of guidelines. Make this a priority, and you'll feel more confident at work and engaged with new acquaintances. In a recent interview, UC Berkeley professor Dacher Keltner mentioned that the pandemic showed us "how absolutely sacred our best relationships are" and how we now value those relationships more than before. "Communication is a skill that you can learn. It's like riding a bicycle or typing. If you're willing to work at it, you can rapidly improve the quality of every part of your life." -Brian Tracy

As a new manager, I quickly discovered the power of effective communication in earning my team's respect. I prioritized clear, consistent, and respectful dialogue, setting transparent expectations and providing constructive feedback. Recognizing achievements sincerely and offering support became my mantra. I also embraced vulnerability, sharing challenges and seeking input collaboratively. This open communication fostered a culture of trust and respect, proving that how you communicate is as crucial as what you communicate. Effective leadership hinges on the ability to connect and convey, turning words into bridges that foster mutual respect.

Empowering team involves 1st step of seeking and giving feedbacks. And working on sharpening skills on constructive feedbacks and improvising skills on development feedbacks. Respecting and appraising the efforts put by team will motivate them for excellence. Giving space and not entering into micromanaging untill required will indicate manager's faith on the team. Providing tools, Trainings, Coaching sessions will empower the team.

Stepping into a management role, I chose to empower my team, granting them autonomy and ownership over their tasks. I provided the necessary resources and support, encouraging experimentation and innovation. This approach allowed them to learn from failures without fear. Celebrating their successes and focusing on their professional growth, I saw their respect for me deepen. Empowerment led to a motivated team, proud of their achievements and eager to develop. This experience taught me that empowering others not only builds respect but also fosters a thriving, innovative environment.

Respect yourself by stepping out of the limelight and shining the spot on others. You'll be happier on your next uninterrupted vacation time with the knowledge that the ship didn't sink in your absence. Too often we promote people who possess deep technical knowledge into people management roles. This is a classic fail waiting to happen. Don't let your technical insights become an organization crutch. Allow your people to flourish and build their expertise without you coming to the rescue. Enable and support their success. Learn the value of saying, "I don't know, what do you think we should do next?" You can learn from your team, develop their abilities to do excellent work without you while demonstrating openness.

Give respect to your team members first. Initiate 1:1 meetings to understand their individual skills and aspirations as they are your most valuable resource. Develop action plans considering their specific needs and align your actions accordingly. Make them feel seen, heard and included, not just managed.

Trust comes from honesty expressed with empathy. Even difficult news, delivered kindly and truthfully, builds respect. Lead by putting yourself in others' shoes, speaking plainly but compassionately. Your team will appreciate your candor and good intent.

As a new manager, your foremost task is to gain your team's trust. Tell them how you operate, your work style, your work ethics, and what you expect. Walk the talk - show the team that your methods get results. Listen - respect the fact that every individual is different and may have a POV. Some may not be very forthcoming, but even here, you can show them that you are approachable through casual, break time conversations, etc. Onus is on you to make them feel you have their backs and can be relied on. Learn - ask questions, be curious, and keep it casual. The team will feel empowered to tell you more about what's working and what's not so you can work on them.

We encourage every new manager to enter a new manager acceleration program and learn how to effectively address the most common current challenges which managers face. Executive Coaching is a great way to heighten your own self-awareness, which is at the core of successful, or so called legacy leadership. If your role is tied to financial impact, prioritise developing the following competencies for yourself and your team: ? Executive Presence ? Strategy Development ? Strategy Execution ? Time Management and Prioritisation ? Learning Agility Reach out to the Dragon Coaching House to understand the benefits of this and the process in more detail.

As managers, we need to lead by example which is more than just setting expectations; it's about embodying the values and behaviors we wish to see in our team. Showing vulnerability, admitting mistakes, and taking calculated risks all help us to build credibility and foster an environment where respect naturally flourishes.