47 percent of first time managers receive no training whatsoever for their new role. The employee to manager transition is challenging, and it's no surprise that many first time managers struggle to find their footing. Use these tips to start off on the right foot and thrive in your leadership position.
1. Communicate Clearly
If you master this tip, you can cut off problems before they affect performance. When you share information with your staff, you will be seen as an ally and build trust and cohesion. You don't need to be chummy or pass along overly personal information to build trust (this can actually backfire). Information to communicate to employees include schedule changes, management and company news, and internal updates.
2. Remember, You're a Role Model
When you're learning the ropes of management, it can be easy to forget that you are a role model for your employees. Whether on a routine shift or during a major event, your employees will look to you for cues on how to act.
If you lose your cool and yell at a guest, staff will take note. If you handle an adverse situation with grace, employees will follow your lead. Remind yourself daily that you set the example for your team to follow, and ask yourself what kind of leader you want to be.
3. Delegate to Empower
No one wants to be micromanaged. And, honestly, no manager wants to micromanage either.
So why do so many fall into this trap? Managers micromanage when they haven't built up trust and as a flawed way to demonstrate authority. Observe the strengths and weaknesses of your team, then assign duties that build up weaknesses and draw on strengths.
Communicate the scope of the project to workers then resist the urge to interfere if you have a different preferred method of completing a task. When you delegate and let employees learn from their own (minor) mistakes, you will empower them to thrive.
4. Invest in Yourself
Whether you received training or are among the nearly half of new managers who got no training, it's important to invest in yourself. Seek out professional development opportunities, listen to hospitality industry podcasts, and read classic management books and hospitality magazines to keep up with trends. This helps you be a better manager to your team and grows your skills organically, so you have more to offer a future employer.
