The Challenges of Transitioning Into A Leadership Role

You've just been promoted into a leadership role in your organization. Your management group believes you have the credentials to take on this new position. Making that transition from worker to manager or leader can be complex. It requires a different set of skills. It's no longer about what you know - it's about you being able to teach someone else. It's no longer just about you - it's about everyone on your team and what you must do to help them succeed. If your team succeeds, then you've done your job. But if the team fails, you fail because your job is to give them the tools they need to complete the task and accomplish the goal.

Worth Remembering - "Leadership is not a position or title; it is action and setting an example for everyone on your team to follow."

I've spent over 40 years as a general manager for a major retailer, a college professor and an award-winning entrepreneur. I can tell you from my experiences that managing and leading others is a learned behaviour. We are not born knowing how to manage and lead others effectively, but we can learn. Here's what you should do.

• Everyone has a preferred communication style. Learn to communicate in a way and manner that everyone will understand. Whatever you say will mean nothing if they don't get the message.
• Take the time to listen to what others have to say. You don't have to agree with them, but you must respect that they have an opinion and a right to express it if it impacts them or others on the team.
• Be empathetic. See things from their point of view. There may be some things going on at work or in their personal lives that you aren't aware of.
• Be flexible and open-minded. It doesn't have to be your way to complete the task and reach the goal. You'll get buy-in if you allow others to have input.
• Be patient. It takes time for people to learn new skills. Be there to offer support. You must be their biggest cheerleader.
• Relationships are important. Take the time to know everyone on your team for more than just their work. People like to work with people they like. People want to work for managers and leaders who make them feel essential to the team's success.
• Establish trust. Whatever you say you're going to do - do it. They must be able to trust what you say. Truthfulness or honesty means having and standing by a strong set of values.

Worth Remembering - "Leadership is getting everyone on your team to work for you when they are not obligated to."

One more thing. Knowing what you know is important. That's why you've been promoted. But it's more important to acknowledge that you don't know everything. You don't have all the answers - nor should you be expected to. Don't be afraid to reach out when you need help. That's what great managers and leaders do.

Copyright (c) 2023. Brian Smith - Power Link Dynamics. Not to be reproduced without permission. Are you searching for a corporate trainer or management consultant? To learn more about Brian and what he can do for you and your organization, visit https://briansmithpld.com or contact Brian directly at - [email protected] #leadershipdevelopment #managementtraining #coaching.