Gen Z Manager : Lessons Learnt

In my first article for this newsletter, I spoke a little about my journey into leadership, and how it led me to where I am today. I also promised that I would share some insights into the lessons learned so far on my journey. The truth is, all of this is very interesting. It’s a bit weird being on the “other side.” I’m no longer the intern reporting to the manager, but I am now the manager supervising a team, and reporting to the boss. But I am grateful of course for this opportunity, especially for all the lessons learnt.

When you’re managing a team, it can be a lot at times. There’s so many things to do, so many things to remember and well - an entire team to lead. For me, I like to be the best at everything I do, that’s how I’ve been ever since I was child. But it’s a bit hard when you’ve never managed a team before, especially a team of individuals in a work setting who are the same age as you. Though it hasn’t been easy, I’ve pinpointed some things that have helped me to create a good rapport with my team.

Here are the three most important things that I’ve learnt so far that have helped me to improve my relationship with my team.?

1. Listen, Really Listen and Hear

I’ve personally been on teams where I felt like I wasn’t being heard. I did not want that to be what my team represented. And so after our weekly Monday connects, my team expressed their need for more mentorship and conversations with seasoned industry professionals. I listened to their needs and decided to do exactly what they wanted, and needed. That was how the Amplify Studios Mentorship Series came about. I worked with my boss to invite Marketing and Communication experts from Jamaica and the Caribbean, and from other international regions to share insights into the industry with the new interns and associates.?

So far the team has been enjoying the new insights and feel much more motivated and confident in their abilities to do amazing work in the marketing industry. I also learnt so much, and was very inspired to continue making a difference in the work that I do. This could only have happened if I really listened, and heard my team.?

2. Get to Know your Team Members?

I made it a point to really get to know my team members, taking an interest in their passions, and what they enjoyed doing. When I realized we had similar interests, I used this as a way to connect better with my team. It's amazing how this simple step helped us not only work together more smoothly, but also strengthened our bond.

It brought us closer together and built a stronger sense of trust within our team. This realization completely changed how we approached our work. We began incorporating our shared passions into our project planning, adding an extra spark to our creative process. It allowed each of us to bring our unique strengths and skills to the table, making us feel more invested in what we were doing. Not only did this boost our confidence in our work, but it also resulted in better projects that showcased everyone's diverse ideas and talents. By embracing these shared interests, we didn't just improve our projects; we also felt a shared sense of purpose, turning us into a team that supports and uplifts one another - which is the best kind of team!

3. Learn from your Team Members?

Learning from my team members has been a humbling experience, reminding me that as a leader, I don't have all the answers. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking we know it all, but each member of my team has unique experiences and insights that have opened my eyes to new possibilities.

Embracing this mindset of openness and humility has not only enriched my own understanding but has also fostered a genuine sense of respect and appreciation within our team. Recognizing that knowledge flows in all directions, regardless of position, has created an atmosphere of mutual learning and growth, where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best.?

I have come to realize that by actively listening to my team members and acknowledging their expertise, I not only enhance my own leadership skills but also cultivate a supportive environment that encourages the continuous development of each individual within the team.?

Stepping into a leadership role has been an eye-opening journey for me filled with valuable lessons. I've come to understand that real leadership means being a great listener, a supportive teammate, and a perpetual learner. I'm excited to continue this journey of growth and collaboration with my incredible team.