If you are a manager, I am sure you remember the first time you became a manager and had a team to lead. Wasn’t it frightening? Or maybe not so much? Well I remember, for me, it was a mix of excitement and a lot of confusion. And frankly if I had got to attend a first time manager training back then, things would have been a little easier for me!
First time manager trainings are extremely important for all those stepping in to managerial shoes. Why? Because, as we already discussed, being a manager for the first time can be quite intimidating. In fact, one can get stressed just by looking at his or her team! The very team that he or she is going to be fully responsible for henceforth.
Also, for a person who has just taken up the role of a manager, first time manager training provides support on what is expected of them and what can be a hindrance for them while executing their new role. Things that need high importance being in a role of a manager. And that’s what we are going to talk about today; the top three topics of a first time manager training. Basically, the top three things that need to be considered from the time you step into the managerial role.
Let’s start…
Managing Time
Before being a manager, you were an individual contributor. You had to only your time management and ensure that you completed all your tasks in the allocated time. But when you become a manager, you have a team that is your responsibility. Your major time goes in managing and supporting them and getting work done from them. And over and above managing your team, you also have to manage the tasks that only you can do. Hence planning, prioritizing and delegating is where your expertise should lie. Managing your and your team’s time to get the best output is what a manager needs to aim for.
Clear Communication
Communication being a very important factor is a no brainer! As a manager, you must be able to communicate clearly to your team, peers, other departments and seniors. And clear communication skills is the key to be able to handle any situation smoothly. Communicating your expectations clearly and giving and receiving constructive feedback from time to time is what will make your life simple as a manager.
Motivation
As a manager, you lead your team to achieve the assigned goals. There may be some ups and downs in the process and it’s you who has to ensure that you and your team keeps going. You are the one who is responsible for not just keeping your team motivated but also yourself motivated throughout. Always remember, your people look up to you so lead by example. And maintain the task versus relationship balance to get the best out of your team.
A first time manager training focuses on these top three topics and many more as must haves for a manager. It is therefore extremely important to get new managers thinking in the right direction and understanding and implementing their role well. Hence I can say that first time manager trainings should be a set tradition for every organisation!