Whether you’re an experienced manager or this is your first time leading a group of employees, chances are that you want to do the best job possible. While you may have worked hard to earn your management position, it’s possible that you still feel a little nervous. After all, leading a team of employees is a huge responsibility. Not only do you have to make sure that your employees show up to work on time and get their work done correctly, but you also have to ensure that each team member is as happy and satisfied as possible. No matter what career field you’re in, it’s possible to improve your leadership skills and become a boss your employees will love.
1. Everyone makes mistakes
Your team will not be perfect. While your team members may be highly educated and experienced in their fields, this doesn’t mean they won’t make mistakes. As a leader, it’s important to recognize when someone makes a mistake so that you can correct it; however, this doesn’t mean you should yell or become agitated when someone messes up. As your team grows and learns, they’ll become better at working together. When you first become a leader, however, your team may struggle. Try to be patient during this time. Even though your team members might make mistakes, this doesn’t mean they aren’t trying their best.
2. Listening is vital
One mistake many supervisors make is ignoring the concerns of team members. Whether you’re managing a few employees or an entire team of staff members, it’s important to listen to their concerns. Many times, your employees may notice problems or issues you might not be aware of. Instead of ignoring the concerns of a well-meaning employee, try to take the time to listen to these problems. Even if you decide the problem isn’t a big deal, it’s still important to acknowledge the issue. If your team members feel understood and cared for, they’ll be more likely to work harder and faster.
3. Most problems can be solved quickly
You’re going to encounter many problems as a supervisor. In fact, solving problems is part of your job now. While many issues you face might seem overwhelming, try to remember that most problems can be solved quickly. For example, if you find that two employees are having a hard time getting along, you can simply move them to different desks where they won’t interact as much. If someone struggles with arriving on time, you can alter their schedule so they work a later shift. Try to find simple, easy solutions to problems. While some of the issues you deal with will be tricky, most of them will not.
4. Happiness is important
As a leader, you’re going to be focused primarily on getting results. It’s your job to make sure that your team performs their duties quickly and correctly. This isn’t your only job, though. Part of being a good boss means ensuring your employees are as happy as possible. While you can’t please all of your employees all of the time, you can take steps to make sure that your team is comfortable and content. Consider hosting regular staff parties, giving small achievement awards or publicly recognizing when someone goes above and beyond your expectations. You could also spruce up the office by bringing in plants or hanging decorative pictures. If you aren’t sure how to make your staff happier or more comfortable, just ask them. They’ll be more than happy to fill you in.
5. No one expects you to be perfect
You’re probably going to experience pressure to perform well. You might feel like all eyes are on you or that people are just waiting for you to fail. This usually isn’t the case. No one expects you to be perfect. It’s OK to mistakes as a boss, but make sure that you accept these mistakes. Admit when you’re wrong. Apologize when you’re rude. Never feel so superior to your staff that you can’t admit when you mess up. Admitting your shortcomings will gain the respect and admiration of your employees because it shows not only that you’re human, but that you don’t feel like you’re better than your team.
Even if you feel frustrated with your employees at times, remember that there is a learning curve. Sometimes it can take a while for your team to learn to work together. Try to be as patient as possible during this time. As you continue to work with your team members, you’ll find that they grow and learn along with you, resulting in a strong, stable team you can be proud of.
