First-Time Team Leader 12 Point Checklist

I love working at all levels of organisations from individuals to C-Suite and Boards, it keeps it real for me, and always an opportunity for learning. It's particularly insightful when we get the opportunity to work at all levels within one organisation!

I've always said that the hardest move is that first team leader opportunity! I'm sure if you've made that transition, you can remember it well. To lead a team for the first time, often with previous peers and friends, is a challenge.

Ages ago I put together a 12 point checklist to help first time leaders make that transition a bit more easily. Thought I'd share it here...

1. Understand Your Role and Responsibilities

• Clarify your role as a leader within the team and the broader organisation.
• Familiarise yourself with the team’s objectives, goals, and how they align with the company's purpose, vision, values and strategy.
• Identify key stakeholders, understand their expectations and build relationships with them.

2. Get to Know Your Team

• Schedule one-on-one meetings with each team member to understand their roles, strengths, and challenges.
• Learn about their career goals and how you can support their development.
• Understand team dynamics, communication styles, and any existing tensions or issues. Get each team member to create a User Manual and share with each other.

3. Set Clear Goals and Expectations

• Define short-term and long-term goals for the team. Create a one page team plan with the team.
• Establish clear expectations for performance, behaviour, and communication.
• Communicate these goals and expectations clearly and consistently.

4. Build Trust and Rapport

• Be approachable, open, and honest in your communication.
• Encourage feedback and be open to suggestions and concerns.
• Show empathy and understanding to build strong, trusting relationships.

5. Develop a Leadership Style

• Reflect on the type of leader you want to be , your mindset, and the leadership style that suits your team’s needs.
• Be adaptable and willing to adjust your approach based on the situation and feedback from your team.
• Focus on leading by example and demonstrating the behaviours you want to see in your team.

6. Communicate Effectively

• Establish regular team meetings and one-on-one check-ins.
• Be clear, concise, and transparent in all forms of communication.
• Actively listen to your team members and encourage open dialogue.

7. Foster Collaboration and Teamwork

• Set up your team for success using the 6P's Team Canvas approach
• Encourage a culture of mutual respect and support within the team.
• Build resilience , recognise and celebrate team achievements and milestones. Seeing progress is motivational!

8. Manage Energy, Time and Priorities

• Develop a system for managing your energy, time and prioritising tasks.
• Delegate tasks effectively to team members based on their strengths and development needs.
• Stay organised and ensure the team is focused on high-impact activities.

9. Handle Conflicts and Challenges

• Be proactive in identifying and addressing conflicts or issues within the team.
• Use conflict resolution techniques to mediate and find constructive solutions.
• Support your team in overcoming challenges and learning from setbacks.

10. Invest in Your Own Development

• Seek feedback from your team, peers, and mentors to identify areas for growth.
• Stay informed about leadership best practices and continue learning.
• Consider finding a mentor or joining a leadership development programme.

11. Celebrate Successes and Learn from Failures

• Regularly acknowledge and celebrate individual and team successes.
• Encourage a culture of continuous improvement and learning from mistakes.
• Reflect on both successes and failures to identify key learnings and areas for improvement.

12. Plan for the Future

• Set aside time to think strategically with the team to explore future direction and growth.
• Identify potential leaders within the team and support their development.
• Continuously adapt and refine your leadership approach as the team evolves.

By following this checklist, you'll be well on your way to becoming a confident and effective team leader who inspires performance and drives results. Remember, leadership is a journey—embrace it, learn from it, and enjoy the process of growth!

I've also created a free online scorecard where you can compare yourself with some of the best leaders in the world. Check it out here and get your free report >>

LEADERSHIP DISCIPLINES SCORECARD

Once completed I'll grant you access to my New Leadership Manifesto eBook which will help you to explore what great leaders are actually doing in today's world to deliver extraordinary results.

Every success,

Graham