On Managing People

Managing people is a complex task. When starting your career, one thinks that being a manager or director is telling people what to do and having a bump in payroll.

In reality, being a manager or a boss is not so much about telling people what to do but getting people to understand how to think to make the organization succeed.

Although not all managers are good leaders, and not all leaders are good managers, the two roles often overlap. A good manager can inspire their team to work together and achieve a common goal, while a good leader can envision the future and chart a course towards it.

To be an effective manager, it helps to cultivate various skills, including communication, delegation, problem-solving, and conflict resolution. Being adaptable and flexible in your approach is also essential, as every situation is unique.

Throughout my experience, here are a few things I recommend to anyone transitioning to a managerial role:

1. Leading by Example: As a manager, one of the most important things you can do is lead by example. If you want your team to be punctual, then you need to be punctual. If you want your team to work hard, then you need to work hard. When your team sees that you are willing to do the same things you are asking them to do, they are more likely to respect you and follow your lead. This creates a positive culture in the workplace and encourages everyone to work together towards a common goal.
2. Give the Benefit of the Doubt: Giving your team members the benefit of the doubt is important. This means assuming they have good intentions and are doing their best, even if they make mistakes. When you give someone the benefit of the doubt, you create an environment of trust and respect. This makes it easier for your team members to approach you with concerns or need help.
3. Give Feedback: Giving feedback is essential for the growth and development of your team. When you give feedback, be specific and focus on the behavior or action rather than the person. Also, be sure to provide both positive and constructive feedback. Positive feedback reinforces good behavior, while constructive feedback helps your team members identify areas for improvement.
4. Train, Train, Train: Training is vital to your team's success. Investing time and resources in training your team members to help them develop the skills they need to succeed is important. This includes technical and soft skills like communication, leadership, and problem-solving. You demonstrate your commitment to your team's growth and development when you provide training opportunities.
5. Allow Others to Get Credit: As a manager, it is important to recognize the contributions of your team members and give credit where credit is due. This means acknowledging their hard work and successes and sharing the spotlight. When you give credit to your team members, you show that you value their contributions and are committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment. This, in turn, helps to build trust and respect between you and your team members.

Managing people is a science that will be partly learned through education and mentorship but mostly forged through experience and practice. Ultimately, the key to successful management is prioritizing your team's needs and creating an environment conducive to their growth and development. By doing so, you can build a solid and cohesive team capable of achieving great things together.