How to Succeed As A First-Time Boss

You may be the greatest mechanic, teacher or salesperson on planet Earth. But your first job managing people is an entirely different challenge and requires skills you might not already own. The first step in succeeding is to survive. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Detachment
• Hard work

1. When meeting your staff for the first time, immediately set yourself at 2.5 on a scale of 5, with 0 meaning, "Please be gentle because I'm new at this," and 5 meaning, "My way or the highway." Initial impressions are vital to earning respect and trying to change them can be impossible.
2. Quickly learn how things work and who makes them work. Demonstrating knowledge of process and procedures, as well as respect for the "go to" people, will make things much smoother.
3. As you begin to settle in, keep your own counsel. You may feel a bit lost; but don't lean too heavily on subordinates. Their loyalty isn't necessarily to you.
4. Reach out for advice and counsel before making important decisions. HR can guide you on appropriate ways to deal with people issues. Your boss can offer background and information about individuals on your staff.

Tips & Warnings

• Take advantage of management training offered by your organization. If there is none, seek it out wherever you can.
• Follow the rules. Consistency means fairness--the most important thing to your employees.