If you are like most people the decision to be given the opportunity to manage is more than likely based on what you did in the past and the potential you have shown.

I emphasised what you did specifically because in my experience those recruiting fail to distinguish between been great at doing and being able to get results through others.

While many people successfully make the transition to managing, just as many struggle.

Yet in truth I believe that there are some simple keys to thriving as a new manager.

Key 1: Promote Yourself

Often people have the new job title, new desk, new objectives and new job description. What’s missing is that they have not made the mental shift to the new role. They are still thinking and acting like a doer rather than a manager.

Key 2: Prepare For The Dip

Making any step up is a challenge. Chances are if you are like most you will experience a dip, quite often in confidence. This can come as quite a shock, especially since you were probably seen as one of the high performers in your previous peer group. Accept that this is perfectly normal.

Key 3: Get Clear On Expectations

I am often surprised to discover when I ask clients to define the top 3 to 5 things that their boss regards as indicators of being successful, they can’t do it. If you don’t know what is expected of you, how are you ever going to deliver? If you are unclear ask.

Key 4: Be Careful With Promises

As the new manager you probably want to keep people happy. Let’s face it we all like to be liked. At the same time you don’t want to fall into the trap of making promises that you cannot keep as it will simply result in people not trusting you.

Key 5: Remember It’s A Marathon Not A Sprint

You want to do well. At the same time you don’t need to do everything immediately. Slow and steady to start with is best. You are in it for the long term, so don’t burn yourself out.

Key 6: Get Support

Being a manager can be a lonely existence. Having some sort of support through a coach, mentor, buddy or peer group can make a big difference. I always had people who could act as sounding boards when I worked in big organisations. It really made a huge difference.

Duncan Brodie helps professionals successfully make the transition from great technicians to great managers. He invites you to check out his management mastery e-course

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