Being a leader and manager in the workplace is a major accomplishment. It means that you have mastered your craft while displaying a motivating, hard working, and team-building attitude. It is certainly something to be proud of! However, moving into a management role is a whole other beast to conquer.
You are now the main resource for leadership and direction for your team. And you know what they say, it’s important to lead by example. Are you ready?
Don’t get intimidated, we’ve got you covered. Here are 5 ways to be an effective leader.
1: Recognize & Reward Hard Work
It’s true, you got to where you are now by working hard and honing your skills. But that wasn’t the only reason you’re in that management seat now. Someone believed in you and would praise you when your efforts proved to be fruitful. It is your turn to do that now for your team.
When you have an employee that you know is an invaluable asset to the organization, be sure to give them the recognition that they deserve. Do industry research and reward them with the proper wage and overtime that they deserve.
Did you know that 66% of employees would quit if they felt unappreciated? Showing your employees that you will root and fight for what they’ve earned is very important in boosting team morale and the overall attitude of your people. It will inspire them to work harder for you and the company as a whole.
2: Communicate, Communicate, Communicate
Nothing frustrates employees more than a manager that doesn’t communicate major or minor changes with them. While it may be difficult to always keep your team informed on changes immediately after they are made, you should try to keep them in the loop as much as possible and is legally allowed. For example, if you are a marketing content manager, tell your team when you think the higher ups may be looking to transform the campaign or imagery. Notifying them of these changes will prevent people from feeling blindsided and upset.
This is part of building trust and reliability with your team. As a matter of fact, studies have shown that productivity increases by 20-25% in organizations with connected employees. Communicate with them so they know that they can come to you with any issues or problems that they come across. Initiating the conversation will make you seem less daunting and more approachable.
3: Encourage Breaks
Going on breaks has been proven to help employees work harder and more efficiently. It is healthy for people to take a step away from their work and refresh their minds on other activities throughout the day. While many states require employers to give their staff breaks during the workday, not all states do. For example, Tampa employment attorneys, Florin Gray Bouzas Owens, report that employees over 18 do not require meal breaks in Florida. While it isn’t required, encouraging your employees to take meal and other small breaks will promote a healthier workplace.
4: Set Reasonable & Realistic Goals
People tend to work better when they are working toward something. Provide your team with a set of goals and check on their progress in a weekly or bi-weekly manner. However, it is important to remember to set reasonable and realistic goals so that your team doesn’t feel that they are striving towards the impossible. Make sure the goals are specific and measurable so that you can record where they are making advancements.
5: Think It Through
Part of your job as a manager is to provide solutions and structure to your team. When coming across a problem, whether it be in a specific campaign or project or one that involves team processes, be sure to find a long term solution. Your team will be discontented to come across the same issues over and over again. Don’t be discouraged if finding a more full-time solution takes longer than just a quick fix. It will prove to be a good investment over time.
Being a manager is a hard, rewarding, and fun feat. Use these tips to get yourself off to a good and strong start.