Starting a new job can be equal parts exciting, challenging and downright terrifying, especially when it comes to managing people.
Whether you’re stepping up into your first management position or taking over from an established and well-respected manager, nothing quite compares to the task of people management.
What’s most important is to remember that everyone has been where you are – even Richard Branson once battled it out as a new manager. All you need are a few simple tools to get you started and you’ll firmly cement yourself as the new team captain.
As a favourite manager once told me, people management is all about balance. Aim for mutual respect. As with so many things in business, it’s impossible to be everyone’s best friend.
In fact, it can make business decisions a whole lot harder if friendships and emotions become involved. Maintain a steady level of structure and assertiveness, and offset it with an approachable and inclusive tone.
Set expectations from day one. Documenting objective measures around the individual’s roles and responsibilities will ensure that everyone is on the same page from the very beginning and will lay the foundations for a great working relationship.
Keep communication lines open at all times. Implementing an “open door” policy – whether it be physical or metaphorical – will create an open and honest culture within the team.
Don’t forget about the communication basics. How many times have we forgotten to respond to a request, be it via SMS, email or a missed phone call?
Even the smallest request could seem like a trivial event for you, but human beings are social animals and inherently searching for recognition. Always acknowledge your staff and their requests – even if it is just to let them know it’s on your radar.
Ask for help when you need it! Managing people is incredibly challenging and unfortunately there is no amount of Excel spreadsheets or magical programs that can solve your people problems for you.
More often than not you will need to think on your feet and your initial reaction will be lasting. Ask your staff if they have experienced any particular management style that worked best for them and why.
Ask your friends and colleagues in similar management positions if they have any handy tricks of the trade. Find yourself a mentor or download the latest TedX talk. People management skills are universal and can be applied across any field or industry, and there is always room for improvement.
Always remember that everyone has their own individual management style, but rest assured if your style follows these simple principles, you’ll undoubtedly fast track your career from People Manager to People Leader.
- Megan Davies is the chair of Future Farmers Network
