Key Strategies For New Managers

Mark Protus | Protus Consulting: 30 years of leadership expertise unlocking growth & engagement, empowering individuals and teams to thrive.

Stepping into a managerial role for the first time is an exciting career milestone, but in my experience, it’s also one of the most challenging transitions a professional can make. Many new managers quickly realize that their previous success as an individual contributor doesn’t automatically translate into effective leadership. The reality is stark: The skills that make us top performers don’t always equip us to guide, mentor and motivate others.

New managers often get thrown into the deep end without the necessary training, guidelines or mentorship to help them navigate their new responsibilities. The term “accidental manager” has been applied to 82% of managers who enter management positions without proper management and leadership training. This lack of preparation significantly contributes to the 60% of managers underperforming in their first year.

Managing former peers also introduces unique challenges, requiring new managers to establish authority without alienating their team. Many struggle with balancing support and accountability because they are eager to prove themselves yet afraid of missteps. Often, they default to doing tasks themselves or expect others to mimic their methods.

However, true leadership isn’t about micromanaging—it’s about empowering others to find their own paths to success. If you’re a first-time manager or preparing for the role, here are five practical tips to help you navigate the transition smoothly.

1. Communication is key.

Effective communication is foundational to good leadership. A McKinsey study found that it can increase a team’s productivity by 20% to 25%. As a manager, I found that building strong communication channels with your team can help you foster trust, collaboration and productivity.

When I started managing, I relied on spontaneity, thinking it would keep things light. However, I soon learned my team thrived on structure. Weekly check-ins became essential for discussing progress, challenges and goals. This routine built alignment and trust, giving the team confidence that they’d always have time to raise concerns or share ideas.

In order to help you communicate effectively, schedule regular check-ins and use tools like Slack or Teams to keep conversations flowing. Practice active listening during meetings, acknowledge feedback, and apply that feedback where possible to foster engagement and trust.

2. Lead by example.

The saying “actions speak louder than words” can hold especially true for managers. You set the standard for your team when it comes to integrity, accountability and a strong work ethic. By showing your team what “good” looks like through your own actions, you can inspire them to take ownership, stay engaged and work together more effectively. In my experience, leadership is most powerful when demonstrated, not just directed.

One way to lead by example is by being transparent about challenges—share your struggles just as you’d expect your team to share theirs. Show accountability by following through on commitments, and if you miss a deadline, acknowledge it and outline improvements. Address conflicts calmly and fairly, modeling how issues should be resolved within the team.

3. Empower your team.

According to Gallup, companies that empower their employees see 23% greater profitability. New managers often struggle with delegation because they are used to handling tasks themselves, but learning to delegate is important for team growth and productivity.

Early in my leadership journey, in an effort to be liked, I avoided tough conversations by keeping my negative feedback vague and indirect, hoping my team would get the gist of what I was trying to say. Over time, I realized my team needed clear, constructive feedback to grow. Once I became specific, engagement improved as employees took ownership of their development.

Providing regular, actionable feedback—beyond just performance reviews—is key to empowering your team. Clear and timely feedback can help team members grow and perform at their best, fostering both personal development and overall team success.

4. Embrace adaptability.

A 2022 study found that 71% of polled CEOs believe adaptability is the most important leadership quality in today’s business landscape. The ability to pivot in response to new challenges or market demands can make or break a leader’s effectiveness.

To create an environment where innovation is welcomed, start by encouraging your team to experiment and learn from failures. You may also have to adjust your leadership style; not every situation requires the same approach. Be prepared to modify your strategies based on your team’s needs and external factors. Finally, look for ways to frame changes as opportunities for growth. In my experience, this mindset can help your team stay resilient during transitions.

5. Prioritize self-care.

Leadership can be demanding, but it’s important to remember that taking care of yourself is part of taking care of your team. According to the American Psychological Association, 76% of adults experience symptoms of stress, and for those in leadership positions, this can be even more pronounced. To lead effectively, it’s important to manage your own stress and maintain your well-being.

To maintain your energy and passion, set boundaries by scheduling self-care activities like exercise or hobbies, and communicate your availability to your team. Practices like meditation or journaling can improve focus, and seeking support from a mentor or therapist when overwhelmed is a proactive way to manage stress.

I learned this firsthand when working 60+ hour weeks left me drained and ineffective. Blocking morning time for exercise, reserving evenings for family and delegating more allowed me to work less, accomplish more and become a better manager for my team.

Conclusion

Leadership is a continuous journey of learning and growth. As you navigate your role as a new manager, remember that every great leader started where you are now. By implementing these strategies, you can set the foundation for a successful leadership career that transforms your team and evolves with your personal development.

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