Musings from the CU Suite

Mar 15, 2012

10 Tips for First-Time Managers

Written by Anthony Demangone

Fred (that's Fred Becker, of NAFCU) knows I write this blog.  So he often sends me articles that might be worthy to share.  

Last week, he sent me this list of 10 tips for first-time managers. (InsideBridge.com).  The article, I thought, was spot on.  Here are the first three tips.  Use the link above to read the other 7.

  1. Accept that you will have lots to learn. You will have worked hard for your promotion and will have ample expertise in your chosen field but you may find that you lack self-confidence in your ability to lead. Be prepared to learn from others, including your new team.
  2. Communicate early. Always keep your team fully informed of project goals, priorities and those all important deadlines. Effective communication will be essential in both establishing your credibility and gaining the support of your team so make sure that you provide clear direction and always welcome questions and feedback from others.
  3. Set a good example. Demand from yourself the same level of professionalism, and dedication that you would expect from others. If you expect the team to be up beat and friendly, then make sure you are! If you expect written reports to be error freeóthen double check your own!

Do any of you have your own tips for new managers?  I'd love to hear them.