New Management Do's and Don'ts
By Martha Whittle

So, you've taken over a new position in management and are wondering what is in store for you. You want to do the best job you can, but aren't sure how to proceed. Here is a list of do's and don'ts to help you in your new position.

1. DON'T think you know everything. Listen, ask for input and keep an open mind.
2. DON'T be afraid to do anything.
3. DO the best you can with confidence.
4. DO take the time to get to know your people. Find out what excites them and scares them. Take the time to get to know them. Motivate them.
5. DO meet with your boss. Budget time to receive guidance and training.
6. DON'T avoid problems. You can get input from others, but now it is your duty to take care of them.
7. DO be human. Laugh, show emotion and make the occasional mistake.
8. DO protect your people. Stand up for your staff when others are trying to dump jobs on your department or wrongfully accusing them.
9. DON'T avoid responsibility for anything. Build communication so there will be no surprises and be prepared to take responsibility for anything your department does.
10. DO be yourself. Find ways to manage the same style of person you were before you were promoted.
11. DO listen. Listen to customers, staff and superiors. Make sure you question anything you were unsure you heard.
12. DON'T bad mouth one group to be accepted by another. Your employees will do the same to you, so show them how to deal with difficulty. Undue criticism creates distrust and destroys accountability.
13. DO be a role model. Assume you are always being watched and always admit to your mistakes so others will. Make sure your actions line up with your words.
14. DO rely on your ability to support. Teach your employees, don't do it for them.
15. DO change your approach to match the situation. Change for the people you manage, don't change the people. Build on your staff's strengths and redirect wrong behaviour.
16. DON'T blow your own horn. Taking the heat and passing on the credit, builds your credibility with those above you.
17. DO focus on your team's strengths. Find ways to build on employees' innate skills.
18. DO be patient. Change takes time and experience.
19. DO work on your emotional intelligence. Self awareness, self-regulation, empathy, motivation, and social skills.
20. DO tell the truth. Hearing the truth helps people find a way through chaos and uncertainty.
21. DON'T just manage. Lead.

Preparing for Greatness provides tips in order to improve yourself for when you are at work or home.

Martha Whittle is a Marketing Assistant for BizXcel. She has a Business Diploma and is currently completing her Bachelor of Management - Marketing Degree. She has past work experience in the accounting and marketing fields.