A decade in review: ten lessons from my ten-year management journey
It recently dawned on me that, soon, it will be ten years since my first role as a manager. To me, a decade of management was a remarkable journey, one filled with twists, turns, and peaks. Throughout this period, I have learned more about myself, people, and the nuances of leadership that I could have ever anticipated. As I reflect on these ten years, I’m reminded of ten lessons that have influenced my growth as manager.
Look ahead: The three-month rule
Always planning at least three-months in advance has been crucial not only to my team’s success, but also to mine. Anticipating challenges and preparing for opportunities allowed me to cultivate a proactive, results-oriented work culture.
Invest in strategic growth
Nurturing my strategic thinking plays a significant role in aligning my team’s and my personal efforts to the broader goals. Understanding and implementing strategy increases efficiency and cohesiveness, leading to improved performance.
The great power of self-reflection
Self-reflection is a truly essential tool for growth. It allows us to acknowledge our strengths, identify areas for improvement before they become a concern, and refine our skills and work style.
Never stop learning
Embracing the mindset of continuous learning has kept me adaptive and open to new ideas. Every decision, whether successful or not, is an opportunity for learning and growth.
Invest in your team’s development
The growth and achievements of your team members are not only a testament to the value of nurturing talent, but also one of the most rewarding aspects of management.
Know your team
Getting to know your team members on a personal level is instrumental in creating a genuine connection. Knowing about their hobbies, celebrating personal milestones etc. has enriched my relationship with them, making the interactions more than just work-related discussions.
You can’t please everyone
Some new managers don’t come to terms with this very easy. This can be a challenging but necessary lesson. It’s always important to keep in mind that we are in a work environment, not a family gathering, and decisions should be made on what’s best for the team and the organization.
Some tough decisions never get (much) easier
Whether it’s terminating someone’s employment or making a very difficult call that affects the team, some tough decisions don’t necessarily become easier over time. What matters is maintaining a clear perspective, acting with integrity, while being compassionate in the process.
Keep personal frustrations out of work
Never let personal frustrations seep into professional relationships. Despite life’s ups and downs, always ensure that personal circumstances don’t affect your interactions with the team members.
Don’t overpromise and fail to deliver
Overpromising and not delivering can erode trust and lead to disappointment. I’ve learned to be as realistic as possible in my commitments, ensuring I can deliver on what I have promised.
As I embark on the next decade of leadership, I look forward to learning more, growing further, and continuing to support my teams.