Things I Wish I’d Known About Managing A Team.
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24 Sep Things I Wish I’d Known About Managing A Team.

Posted at 11:11h in Uncategorised by

Insights from the HR Trenches: Navigating the Challenges of Team Management

As a seasoned HR manager at The Headspace Bureau, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless professionals make the leap into management roles. It’s a journey filled with excitement, but also with its fair share of challenges, especially for those stepping into leadership positions without prior training in people management.

Reflecting on my own experiences in management training and the experiences of employees stepping into new management roles, I’ve come to realise that there are a few crucial insights a lot of managers say they wish they had known before taking on the responsibility of managing a team.

First and foremost is the importance of people skills. While technical expertise may have paved the way to the management position, it’s the ability to understand, communicate with, and motivate people that truly defines success in leadership. Developing strong people skills, such as active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution, is essential for fostering a positive and productive work environment.

Another common struggle for new managers is navigating employee conflicts. Conflict is inevitable in any workplace, and as a manager, you’ll inevitably find yourself mediating disputes among team members. It’s crucial to address conflicts promptly and impartially, seeking to understand the root causes and facilitating constructive resolutions. Establishing clear channels of communication and promoting a culture of transparency and respect can help prevent conflicts from escalating and foster a more harmonious team dynamic.

Delegating tasks effectively is also a skill that many new managers struggle to master. It can be tempting to micromanage or take on too much responsibility out of fear of delegation gone wrong. However, learning to trust your team members, play to their strengths, and provide clear guidance and support can empower them to excel in their roles and contribute to the team’s success.

Providing feedback and evaluating employee performance is another fundamental aspect of management that can be daunting for those new to the role. Constructive feedback should be specific, timely, and focused on behaviours rather than personal attributes. Additionally, setting clear performance expectations, establishing measurable goals, and offering regular opportunities for development and growth are essential for fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability within the team.

Finally, it’s important to strike a balance between compassion and accountability as a manager. While it’s crucial to support your team members through challenges and setbacks, it’s equally important to hold them accountable for their actions and performance. By setting high standards, providing constructive feedback, and recognising and rewarding achievements, you can inspire your team to strive for excellence while maintaining a supportive and compassionate leadership style.