WEEKLY FOCUS
First Line Management…Getting the basics right!
In this week’s Focus, we feature on Internal Promotions as opposed to external applications for a First Line Management role. For most organisations and where talent is developed, this will be the norm.
You have applied for the promotion, been interviewed…and then “Well done, the job is yours”. So what happens now!? You may already have some supervisory/management training but now it’s for real!
Becoming a manager shouldn’t involve you undergoing a change of character…You have been promoted for a reason – be authentic, it’s only the role that has changed – similarly remain authentic. Don’t try to be something or someone that you are not…people will see through you.
One area that you will need to think about is you and your own self development. What will you need? Who can help you? Make sure that you speak with your Line Manager.
- They are there to help and support you
- What new skills do you think that you may need?
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help
- Ask for feedback
Very early or even in the first couple of days, you may find it useful to speak with your new team, and to introduce yourself – this is going to be new for everyone!
Explain what your team can expect from you (and remember to deliver this!), similarly what do you expect from your team? Remember this is a coming together and not a dictatorial approach!
What do want to achieve together and how you see this working?
In any management role, there is no place for favourites. Be consistent and fair in all that you do. From the outset, start to build strong relationships with your team and its members.
Where possible, try to ensure that your team has all that it needs – this will also include access to you!
Fairly early in your role and once you have assessed what you need to achieve and how, you need to sit down again with the team and collectively create some GOALS. Lead in a way that your team want to join you on the journey.
Management is about process. Leadership is about people.
Finally, work with a smile, leading people is a fabulous challenge. Be remembered for what you gave and not what you took!
Management’s job is to convey leadership’s message in a compelling and inspiring way.
Not just in meetings, but also by example.
Jeffrey Gitomer