Congrats on the promotion - it can be exciting and daunting at the same time. I've been fortunate to fool enough of the right people over the years that I've found myself in several supervisory/management positions along the way. I don't profess to be any sort of expert and I know I've made more than my share of mistakes along the way, but here are a few pieces of advice I've been given that have resonated and stuck with me:
- Be firm but fair. There are boundaries that have to be adhered to and lines that can't be crossed. Be consistent in holding people to that and treat them fairly and you're well on your way. Whether they realize it or not, most people do want a little bit of structure and perform better when it's provided.
- It's easier to be a little harder up front and then ease off the reigns than it is to come in too soft and too friendly and too afraid to rub some people the wrong way and then realize you have to reign it in when people are taking advantage of your good nature.
- Be friendly, but you're not their friend. Already spoken to previously - I concur with this one.
Not saying I've followed each of these 100% of the time, but they all ring true based on experience. Good luck in the new role!
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