Key tips for new managers

Two men discussing at work about a project

Be honest: did you get your promotion because of your technical skills or because of your leadership ability? Good managers ideally need to have a complementary blend of both these key qualities, so if your strengths lie more in one area than the other, then you’ve got some catching up to do in order to strike the perfect balance.

The good news is there are plenty of ways to improve your leadership skills – after all, most successful leaders are made, not born. When it comes to technical skills, however, there’s really nothing else for it other than to knuckle down and learn the ropes.

Understand processes and structure

Stepping into a new management role can often be a baptism of fire, particularly if you’ve come from outside an organisation rather than being promoted from within. There will be so many ropes to learn and an abundance of unique challenges to tackle head-on; one of the most important things you can do is familiarise yourself with operational structures and processes as soon as possible, as well as learn who to ask about what. Find out who your go-to people are and you’ll be half-way there. Here are some other points to consider:

Nurture your team– a successful team is one that operates like a well-oiled machine, so take time to facilitate effective communication and strong working relationships. Team-building workshops or even entire days can be an invaluable investment. It can build trust and encourage the two-way exchange of ideas, plus you’ll also benefit from greater team motivation and productivity.

Understand roles and their scope– whether your team is large or small, it’s important to see how everyone fits together. Think of it like a jigsaw puzzle, where a full and rounded set of skills, experience, knowledge and expertise complete the picture. Plug any gaps with additional training and be sure to view your jigsaw within the wider context of your company, in order to take a strategic and tactical approach to all goal-setting and decision-making.

Recognise your people as individuals– you’ll soon come to recognise what inspires, motivates and frustrates different members of your team, as well as how to get the best out of them.

Make the most of the honeymoon period– the breathing space and mutual goodwill to collaborate in the first few days, weeks and months in the job will only last so long, so plan ahead to maximise the opportunities this sweet period brings.

Be clear, honest and transparent about your expectations– only by letting people know about your goals, targets and aspirations will they be able to contribute effectively and perform to their best, as individuals and collectively. Work on this proviso and you’ll develop an autonomous, self-measuring team.

Make changes gradually– some projects demand swift decision-making and early action, but many require you to play the long-game rather than deliver immediate results. Take your time assessing the situation and introducing or modifying action chains and processes.

Listen– have your ear to the ground at all levels, from boardroom to shop-floor.

Be open to positive criticism– just because you’re a manager now doesn’t mean you don’t still have a lot to learn.

How companies can benefit from working with freelancers

06 Jun 2021

With the growing prevalence of freelance work and the benefits that candidates in the market can reap, we find out how organisations can also achieve some of the benefits from freelancers here.

In-Demand Skills in Renewable Energy Sector: Middle East's Growing Need for Expertise

27 Jul 2023

Renewable energy is gaining significant traction in the Middle East as countries in the region strive to diversify their energy sources, reduce carbon emissions, and establish a sustainable future. In this article, we will explore the in-demand skills in the renewable energy sector in the Middle East.

Saudi Arabia set to be the world’s fastest growing economy and what this means for the talent landscape

15 Sep 2022

According to IMF forecasts, Saudi Arabia is poised to join the trillion-dollar club this year, largely spurred by the global spike in energy prices, especially crude oil. The Kingdom’s economy registered in the first quarter of 2022 a nearly 10 percent increase in GDP, compared to the same period last year. Read on to find out what this means for KSA's thriving talent landscape.

Net zero carbon emission: Where does the GCC stand?

04 Mar 2022

The GCC is in the middle of a transition and the first step towards a sustainable future. Read on to find out how to achieve zero-carbon footprint and how the GCC fits in.