5 mistakes new managers make

Beginners in management roles often have problems with being themselves. They focus too much on what a good manager should be and do. However, these assumptions may cause them more harm than good and complicate their efforts to build good relationships with their people. What are the most common  misconceptions about how managers should behave and how should they be avoided?

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According to the The Muse website, everyone who starts as a manager should forget the following assumptions.

1. I have to behave this way or that way

When you aren't authentic, the people around you will remain reserved and closed. It's better to understand your role and put your true self into it than to behave in a way that isn't entirely your own.

2. A good manager is always liked by subordinates

Every manager's priority shouldn't be to be liked by everyone, but to offer their workers leadership, support and feedback to keep them improving and growing. You should care about long-term employee satisfaction more than short-term satisfaction. Strong relationships are not formed when people only discuss nice things.

3. I have to tell others what to do

Beginner in management tend to lead workers to use the same practices that were validated to him when he was promoted. This, however, limits creativity and personal involvement in their work. Your real task is to encourage them to meet their goals, not to watch every their step.

4. My subordinates' success is my success

Being in a higher position doesn't mean that you should take credit for every success. On the contrary, a good manager should emphasize his team's role in every success. Encourage your people to share their achievements across the company, and inform your own supervisors about them.

5. Feedback is no problem for me

New managers often believe they can communicate feedback to their people. Mostly, however, they are not specific enough and consider feedback as a one-way issue. Your task is to show subordinates their individual influence on the team's work and to arrange an open two-way discussion.

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Article source The Muse - U.S. website focused on smart career advice and long-term professional development
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