Have you noticed there are people in management who make you wonder “how the heck are they being paid more than me?” Or your company keeps making managers out of people who are exceptionally good at their jobs but then not training them to actually manage other people?
This is a glaring gap I’ve noticed in multiple companies.
While we may be quick to fault the individual in reality we should be questioning the system; Where is the entry level management training? How do we identify the foundational skills that make great leaders?
When a company creates leadership that truly listens, creates psychological safety, and inspires their employees to bring their whole selves to work, the company will get back way more than it puts in. Employees will have loyalty and intrinsic motivation to hit their numbers, work harder and smarter, and go above and beyond. Employees will enjoy their work, have less sick days, reduced tension and stress, and be more collaborative.
While the C suite level gets a lot of attention and coaching with the expectation it will trickle down the corporate chain, it very rarely does. Newly minted managers are sponges - excited about their new roles and willing to listen and to inspire. But being comfortable asking for help, or finding a mentor with the energy and passion needed can be a challenge, and for managers coming from more diverse backgrounds it can be difficult, or even impossible, to find a mentor with the same background as themselves.
If we want to grow as a society and change the look of companies we we need to start from the bottom up and create managers who inspire loyalty, attract and develop great workers who are worth promoting all the way to the top so that they can turn around and give a leg up to more people like them. Who look like them, act and believe like them. Humans want connection, safety and trust - make managers that give these things freely without consequence. Less fear based management and more inclusive management.
Here are a few steps that I cover in my workshops:
1. Develop Soft Skills:
While technical skills are vital, soft skills are equally important for management success. Skills like communication, empathy, problem-solving, and conflict resolution play a pivotal role in fostering a positive work environment and nurturing effective teamwork.
2. Build Relationships:
Forge strong connections not only within your team but across various departments. Collaborative relationships enhance your ability to coordinate projects, gather diverse perspectives, and ensure a seamless flow of communication.
3. Hone Decision-Making Skills:
Management often involves making tough choices. Practice your decision-making skills by analyzing scenarios, weighing pros and cons, and considering the potential outcomes. This prepares you to make informed choices even in high-pressure situations.
4. Learn Time Management:
Balancing multiple tasks is a hallmark of management roles. Efficiently managing your time enables you to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and allocate resources effectively.
5. Communicate Effectively:
Clear and concise communication is key to successful management. Whether it's providing instructions, giving feedback, or conducting team meetings, your communication style sets the tone for your team's interactions.
6. Adapt and Innovate:
The business landscape is constantly evolving. Embrace change and be open to new ideas and technologies. Being adaptable and innovative ensures that your team remains competitive and efficient.
7. Lead by Example:
Your actions speak louder than words. Demonstrate the behaviour, work ethic, and attitude you expect from your team. Leading by example fosters a culture of professionalism and accountability.
8. Continuously Learn:
The journey to becoming an exceptional manager is ongoing. Engage in continuous learning through workshops, seminars, online courses, and reading industry publications. Staying informed about the latest trends keeps you ahead of the curve.
9. Empower Your Team:
Great managers empower their team members by delegating tasks, providing guidance, and acknowledging their contributions. Creating an environment where team members feel valued and motivated directly impacts the team's success.
To book an entry level management foundations workshop with me please email info@calgary-coaching.com
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