How do you handle employee promotions? When promoting one of your star employees to a management or supervisory position, companies should take the time to train and help the manager adjust to their new role.
An employee’s relationship with their immediate supervisor is one of the top five factors in job satisfaction, so a new manager’s smooth transition can be crucial in continuing the company’s success. That’s also why special care should be taken to find an employee who is great at their job and has the potential to be a great leader.
Here are areas to pay special attention to when a worker makes the leap from employee to manager:
Changing Job Duties
Many new managers continue with their day-to-day duties, failing to realize that they must now delegate those responsibilities and take on a supervisory role. Likewise, some new managers make the mistake of managing the process rather than managing the people. Staying in the weeds will prevent the manager and his or her team from evolving and being innovative.
Changing Focus
As an employee, the focus was more on the day-to-day, immediate issues. Managers must exist with two mindsets, though, staying aware of their departments’ daily workings but also of the bigger picture. Everything they accomplish through their departments should promote the company at large, and the long-term corporate goals and concerns.
Changing Communication
Managers are now leaders rather than comrades, which can be a difficult shift. They must now be able to talk with subordinates without being too aggressive or too yielding. Focusing on teamwork is key. Managers should share the company’s goals with the team, letting them give input and all work toward reaching the goal and sharing in the successes.
Nextep provides training resources and guidance on all things employee-related. If you need experts in your corner, contact us today!
