The first time that anyone assumes the role of a team leader can be an incredibly pivotal and demanding moment. It will not only shape the rest of your career but also how other people see you. However, it’s not always easy to assume the role of a leader, and it can come with its own unique challenges. If you’re worried that you’re not currently the best leader you can be for your colleagues, here are a few approaches to consider.
1. Be self-aware
A feeling of confidence can ensue when being chosen to take the role of line-manager or team leader. However, ego should always be hemmed in when it comes leading a group of people, allowing some room for self-awareness. Being critical enough of one’s self to identify behaviors or weaknesses that could be improved on, or changed, is an appealing skill to have, particularly for the rest of your team who will be learning with you.
2. Listen
It can seem so simple to suggest, and yet listening is one of the best ways to show your team that you are invested in their progress. Just taking the time to understand their issues and take note of their development will show them you care, and do wonders for your perception as a leader.
3. Know that it will take time
You will not be the perfect leader overnight, and so there’s no need to place enormous amounts of pressure on yourself to be perfect the first time around. Developing your role as a leader comes with time and experience, and while your experience may have got you the leadership role in the first place, it does not make you an experienced leader. In the same sentiment, you will need to allow yourself time in your schedule to devote yourself to the role of leadership.
4. Understand delegation
Chances are, you got to your management position because you’re good at organization and time management. However, you will soon find a new way of opening up your schedule, which involves delegating your work to your co-workers. It can also come with a certain amount of guilt and reluctance to lose control of your own workload. By doing this, you will also broaden and develop your employees’ skills set, and help them to grow in their individual roles.
5. Get educated
While experience is essential to becoming a good leader, education is also necessary to build and develop your current knowledge. Enrolling on leadership courses can help you to build your communication skills and gain some crucial insight into what makes an invaluable leader. Attending a course by the Corporate Coach Group, for example, would help you to go out and learn skills as part of a group who are undergoing the same experience.
While you’re going through your journey as a leader, be prepared to experience plenty of pitfalls as well as achievements. Acknowledging that you’re not perfect and that you’re learning alongside your team is the healthiest mindset to keep.