If you’ve recently been promoted to a leadership role, you’re likely to find yourself simultaneously nervous and excited. These feelings are totally normal. Naturally you want to do your very best, but leadership comes with a learning curve. Sometimes, especially at the beginning, the position can be overwhelming. The transition to leading others instead of only being managed yourself is one of the most stressful parts of a career. This advice will help guide you as you begin this new chapter!
Prioritize Learning
Your first goal should be to learn as much as possible about the company, your colleagues, and yourself. If your company offers any trainings, resources, or tools for new managers, make sure you check them out. Don’t wait until you’re stuck to ask for help. Instead, be proactive and read up on any policies.
You should also learn about the people you’ll be responsible for leading. Take a look at their files, including their resumes and information about their past positions. You should also read up on their performance reviews and any goals that they’ve set.
Now is also the time for some introspection. Don’t forget to learn about yourself, too. Consider your strengths and weaknesses and you begin this new position. What are your professional goals?
Shift Your Mindset
Before your new position, your job was to focus on accomplishing tasks. Taking on a leadership role means you need to change your mindset. You goal isn’t just to accomplish tasks, but to empower others to do great work. You’ll likely have to take a step into the background. You can’t only credit yourself for your accomplishments, but the team who supported you. Your performance is deeply connected to the performance of your team.
Set a Strong Example
In a leadership role, your words and actions matter more than ever before. You’re responsible for modeling the behavior you want from your employees– no excuses. No one is above the rules. Management doesn’t get a pass. People will expect you to practice what you preach. Nobody wants to do their best work for a leader acts hypocritical. Prioritize keeping deadlines and listening to your coworkers. Don’t badmouth anybody, and remember at all times that you’re representing your organization and modeling the behavior you want to see from your employees.
Taking on leadership is an exciting time. Make the most of your opportunity by learning as much as possible, shifting your mindset towards supporting others, and setting a good example for those around you.
This article was originally published on RobBensh.co.