How to Succeed as a New Manager

How does one step into the role of leadership, mentorship, and authority? How do you let go of the reigns and instead move to teaching others and helping them along? My advice is to let others do that exact same thing for you. Lean on the wisdom of all of those that have come before you.

To begin, there are many different styles of leadership and it is important to identify the one that will work the best for you as well as for your particular situation. After that step, begin your exploration. Read as many books as you can on the topic. A few that I can recommend are here:

— The Invisible Spotlight: Why Managers Can’t Hide
— Critical Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High
— Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson

Within each style of management there are certain things that will transcend them all. First and foremost I recommend a practice of mindfulness. Be aware of what you are saying and what is going on around you. How are your reports, coworkers, and superiors interpreting you? Is there a better way that you can address a situation. Always practice awareness and try to gauge the situation.

The two most common mistakes I see for those new in the position as well as from veterans are at both ends of the spectrum. Trying to be best friends with your…