Understanding how to manage change is vital to running a company, especially if you are a new manager and still getting acclimated. This blog will cover several strategies to make the transition easier for you and your new team.
Do your research
New jobs are all hard and require a good onboarding process. However, when you’re starting at a new job as a manager, it’s vital you do your research about the company and processes beforehand. Ideally, you will be trained by a previous manager, but there are times when you’ll have to learn on the job. Doing your research and knowing how a company and department works goes a long way to avoiding mistakes and making the transition as smooth as possible.
Listen and learn, first
In line with the point above, you should listen and learn from your new team. Just because you’re their manager doesn’t mean they don’t have a lot to teach you. Listen and learn how the department works, observing who works well together and how the flow of responsibility goes before trying to make any changes.
Discuss goals and expectations
Goals and expectations help companies move forward. It’s important to discuss them with a new team to make sure everyone is on the same page and aiming for the same things. You should not only discuss your expectations of your team, but also what they expect from you.
Clarify your role and duties
Before you dive into a new management position, be sure to clarify your role and duties. You should also establish the roles and responsibilities of different team members, so you know who to contact if you need something or have a questions.
Schedule check-ins
Check in regularly with your new team to see how they are handling the transition. Once a month for the first few months you should ask what you could be doing better and what they feel you need to know. You should also be checking in with them and letting them know what you’ve observed, things they can do better and how you’d like things to proceed.
Find the best communication systems
Establishing the go-to communication systems is important when learning how to manage change. You need to know what platform your team uses most efficiently for different duties. For example, you may find that quick questions are best sent through Skype for an instant response, whereas longer questions should be emailed to give the recipient time to respond. Having go-to communication systems means you’ll know where to find documented conversations and how to reach your new team.
How do you manage change? Let us know in the comments below.
About the Author: Jocelyn Pick
