Communicate
There’s no substitute for effective communication in business, and that’s even more true for a team manager. Whether it’s face-to-face in the office or digitally with your hybrid/remote workers, talking regularly is the best way to engender staff loyalty and confidence. It’s easy to make excuses in this area, but consistent communication really is essential if you’re to retain your best people.
Make decisions
It can be tough, but leadership is all about making decisions, whether it’s on a project or a personnel issue. Your team members will look to you to be decisive and give them clarity, so there’s no option to sit on the fence, even if the decision you make may not sit well with some of the team.
Collaborate
Getting involved was historically viewed as good management, but with the new normal it’s important to learn how to encourage collaboration while also taking a step back and giving your people the freedom to progress. Some of the team may not work in the same way as you do, but that doesn’t mean they’re wrong, and working together can deliver far better results so it’s down to you to create that culture.
Train
Statistics indicate that around one in three new recruits leave their job within the first 12 months. There are, of course, many reasons for this, but a key one is a lack of personal development. As a team manager it’s important to review your Learning and Development strategy and ensure that all team members are given the opportunity to upskill at a pace that works for them. And don’t forget that a high turnover of staff will also cost the business more money, so a settled team is the best way forward.
Manage remotely
The Covid-19 pandemic has led to a shift in demands on team managers. Historically, the bulk – if not all – of your team would be in the office with you all day, every day, which made management easier. Now you may be facing a hybrid or even fully remote team, so you need the skills to manage them effectively, monitor their output and assess their mental health. Communication is at heart of this, but recognition and training and development are also key factors.
More tips on our News page on our website: www.exactsourcing.com/whats-the-key-to-successful-team-management/.
