Congratulations on your promotion or new management role! However, now the real work begins. The first few weeks of your new position can be overwhelming, and you may encounter resistance from some colleagues who may feel they were better suited for the job. You must remember that not everyone will welcome you with open arms, and you need to work hard to establish a positive reputation with your employees.
To make a successful transition, start with a mental shift. Realise that a higher management position is not just about bossing people around but entails increased responsibility on your shoulders. You need to be responsible for the people you've recently worked with and widen your perspective to handle the new responsibilities that come with the job. A shift in mindset is crucial to your success in your new position.
Initiate a team-wide one-on-one session to understand your team members' challenges and obstacles they face, their achievements, and their perspectives. By doing so, you will be able to identify team members who are struggling and need your support, and those who are performing well and need recognition. You will also gain a better understanding of how departments function and how individual roles play a part in the organization.
Finding a mentor to guide you through the process can soothe your transition into the new role and help you steer through some tough choices. Look for someone who is good at listening, is a practical person, and has been successful in a managerial position.
It is crucial to communicate with your bosses and have a clear picture of what is expected of you in this specific position. By doing so, you will be able to perform accordingly, and their expectations will guide you in the right direction.
Finally, kick-start your learning process by reading books relevant to your field of work or listening to podcasts and TEDx talks. Gaining knowledge from external sources will provide you with different perspectives and help you crack the code.
Remember that there will always be someone who thinks they're a better fit for your role. To succeed in your new position, you need to be one step ahead, have a sharp mind about managing different situations, and be willing to learn and grow in your new role.