Frontline mangers play a critical role in every organization. They serve as the face of leadership for large segments of the workforce and are responsible for leading their direct reports in a direction that supports the overall strategy of the organization. Yet, frontline managers are often first time managers, people who are promoted into a management role as a result of their exemplary performance as an individual contributor. This scenario is very common, but it typically leaves most first time managers ill-prepared for the situations and challenges they face as they transition into a management role. Over the next two weeks, we will be identifying ten common mistakes made by first time managers and how to avoid them.

Here are the first five:

1. Failing to set and communicate expectations
   Expectations are the lifeblood of any relationship. They help establish the boundaries that guide the work that must be done, how it should be done, and when it must be completed. First time managers often incorrectly assume that their direct reports will inherently know what their leader expects from them. As a first time manager, be sure to invest the time to discuss your expectations with each member of your team and with your team as a whole.
2. Failing to revisit, re-communicate, and reinforce expectations
   Once expectations are set, they must be consistently revisited, re-communicated, and reinforced. By failing to do any or all of these actions, the value of setting initial expectations diminishes. Therefore, be sure to devote time for ongoing discussions with your direct reports to discuss expectations and any variations (both good and bad).
3. Failing to address people issues quickly before they become significant challenges
   The process of managing people can be incredibly rewarding; however there will be challenges along the way. Oftentimes, some of the most challenging situations for first time managers arise from the complexity of managing people. These challenges, if left unattended, can quickly turn into larger issues that have significant ramifications. However, the good news is that most of these significant challenges can be avoided if they are addressed early. As you move into a first time manager role, address people challenges as soon as they arise.
4. Overlooking your role as a coach
   To be a great manager, you must be willing to be a great coach. A great coach does the following:
   • Creates a safe environment in which people see themselves more clearly by listening, asking focused questions, and helping team members reflect on experiences.
   • Observes team members in action and helps identify gaps between where they are and where they should be.
   • Understands and anticipates potential obstacles and offers corrective feedback when needed.
   • Asks questions of team members to help them reflect on experiences and identify future agreed upon behavioral changes.
5. Underestimating the power of words
   As a manager, what you say to your team members can have long-lasting effects. Your words can serve either to motivate or de-motivate them simply because of your role. As you interact with your direct reports, be aware of both what you’re saying and how you’re saying it.

Visit our blog next week to learn the remaining five common mistakes made by first time managers and how you can avoid them.

Tags: Focused and Aligned Leaders, Frontline managers, Skilled and Motivated Workforce

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