When you have just been promoted to be a new leader, all eyes are on you. Paired with your own expectations, this can quickly lead to lots of stress and pressure on yourself.
In many companies there is no real new leadership training. You are pushed into cold water and need to learn as you go. Don’t let this stop you.
Patience is a virtue as a leader
To convince your manager and your team that you are the right person for the job, you have to first build credibility. Credibility comes from showing results.
And to achieve these, it’s crucial that in this early phase of your new role, you are crystal clear on the following points:
1. Priorities: Do you know and understand your company’s priorities? Do you know those of your boss as well? What needs to be addressed first? What can wait? Make a list, write it down. Don’t underestimate the importance of clear priorities.
2. Team dynamics: Who are the people in your team? What are their responsibilities? Take the time to get to know them. Also, make sure to delegate work to them; that is their expectation. Building trust and effective teamwork is vital.
3. Networking: It’s important to have a network, especially if you’re coming from outside the company. Learn and know who you will work with, including both colleagues and key stakeholders. Identify the go-to people and those who can make things happen. Identify a more senior person that might be willing to be your mentor.
4. Stress and Pressure: Make sure you address these topics early on. Don’t wait for sleepless nights. Take stress head-on and understand the underlying triggers. Develop your own strategies for managing stress. Whether this is practicing mindfulness, engaging in regular exercise or working with a professional.
5. Self-Doubt: Avoid comparing yourself to others. It’s easy to succumb to impostor syndrome. Remember why you were chosen for this role and focus on your unique strengths and qualifications. Confidence in yourself will help build credibility.
Conclusion
Being kind to oneself is important. Stress and pressure can become everyday companions if you give in to those feelings easily.
Give yourself time. Make sure to deliver value. Understand what the significant pieces of the puzzle are and work on them first. Let your team handle the nitty-gritty details.
By implementing these suggestions, you can lay a solid foundation for building credibility as a new leader. And you can also manage stress and pressure.
Leadership coaching is a great tool to help you grow into your role and get the best out of it, find more about my specific services here.
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