New manager handbook for dummies

[swimswimspinspin]

Where I am, my line manager & his Manager are both incredibly hands off. I'm left to my own devices but have brought about some big changes to the company which earned me a promotion. I'm really grateful but am trying to get a plan in place moving forward. I feel like I'm being disrespectful here but I really don't like the "management" styles I see around me.

I have an assistant joining me in a couple of days and this is my first experience of managing anyone. I don't want to be in a position where they don't feel adequately supported or valued but equally I don't want to be overly involved.

The hands off approach from Management has had some pretty disastrous effects from some ex staff. It's either been seen as total disinterest so has negatively impacted motivation or a select few have seen it as a challenge to see what they can get away with. (including theft & fraud) There are a bunch of us however who work well as a team and unofficially keep each other motivated.

If you have any wisdom/advice for a first time manager, please do share! I never want to be the reason someone goes home angry or stressed...

Please help me write the management book for dummies

I would say.. treat them as you would expect to be treated. Always with respect, listen to their ideas and allow them to contribute.

I don't know what kind of role your doing but as a manager in my setting I need to carry out 8week supervisions to discuss with staff how they are getting on, if they have any concerns. I always ask if there is anything they would like to see me do, or do differently.

Think about the things you and your team would like your manager to do differently and act on that within your role.

Just a side note, there may be days that you have to have difficult conversations with staff and they may not always like it. Sometimes they won't forget either. Just don't beat yourself up about it and always remember your trying your best. Your best is all you can give

Good luck with your role, I'm sure you will do really well 🙂

Thank you @MummaEllie youre so kind

Really helpful to suggest treating like I'd want to be treated because I'm a big believer also in never asking anyone to do something I wouldn't do myself etc.

Also glad you mentioned how often you have those meetings because I knew I wanted to schedule them in but had no idea how often was often enough

Keep up regular, positive communication - I spend 30mins to an hour with each of my team asking about their week and any problems they are facing. Genuinely care about their interests and needs. Sign off their leave requests quickly if you can. It builds trust. Help them feel like you have our back if things go wrong. Good luck!

Have regular one to ones, set goals, review tasks and offer support if they fall behind and praise for achievements and efforts. Ask how they’re doing and let them know what training opportunities there are. Be clear about your expectations and encourage feedback on your performance too.

I didn’t enjoy being a line manager because I felt the burden of responsibility too keenly but I was told by my direct reports that I was a good manager!

@bluejelly oooh great shout on leave requests, would never have thought about it. Thank you!

@FourPoster thanks! Definitely keen to ask for feedback (yet equally terrified it'll be brutal or I'll find out I'm the worst manager ever)

@FourPoster I bet you were excellent, I guess that showed just how much you cared and I bet it went a long way

Be clear about your expectations.

Be consistent.
You're allowed to make mistakes.
Don't try to be their friend. That's not your job.
You can act with empathy and fairness and firmness at the same time.

@Whataretheodds big thanks!

Must repeat to myself: you are allowed to make mistakes...

Also remember you can ask them what they need from you. Some employees may not be able to answer that, but some will.

@LadyDanburysHat ooooh, that's brilliant. Now you've said that I kind of wish I'd been asked the same