The Virtue of Patience: A Crucial Skill for New Managers
Becoming a manager is often seen as a natural progression for top-performing individuals in technical roles. However, amidst the excitement of this transition, one crucial virtue tends to be overlooked: patience. In our discussion, we explore why patience is an invaluable skill for new managers and how it can shape their leadership journey.
Emphasizing Patience in Managerial Development
As individuals ascend the ranks from engineers to leaders and managers, they bring with them a track record of speed, knowledge, and sharpness. Yet, the shift from individual contributor to team leader requires a significant adjustment in mindset. Instead of sprinting ahead, new managers must learn to bring their team along with them, patiently guiding and supporting their development.
Fostering Democratic Leadership
A key strategy for cultivating patience in new managers is fostering a democratic relationship with their team. By providing everyone with a voice and actively listening to their input, managers can foster a sense of ownership and commitment among team members. Use questions and active listening to get the team to come up with the solution or process you would like them to follow, rather than presenting it yourself. When people are saying yes to you, it doesn’t mean they actually are going to do that. However, if they are the ones who came up with the idea, they will be tremendously more invested in getting it to successful fruition.
The Power of Patience in Managing Up
Patience is not only vital in leading a team but also in managing up to superiors. Recognizing that ambiguity is often inherent in managerial directives, new managers must resist the urge to jump into action immediately. Instead, they should take the time to understand expectations, contemplate implications, and seek clarification when needed. This approach not only ensures alignment with organizational goals but also builds trust and credibility with superiors.
Combining Technical Expertise with People Skills
While technical expertise is undoubtedly important, new managers must recognize that their role extends beyond technical prowess. Developing strong people skills, such as active listening, empathy, and effective communication, is essential for building and leading high-performing teams. By prioritizing patience alongside technical expertise, new managers can navigate the complexities of their role with confidence and achieve long-term success in their leadership journey.
Patience is not just a virtue — it’s a fundamental skill for new managers. By embracing patience in their leadership approach, managers can foster collaboration, build trust, and drive success both within their teams and throughout the organization. So, as aspiring leaders embark on their managerial journey, let patience be their guiding light, illuminating the path to effective leadership and sustainable growth.
#leadership, #Management, #NewManager, #Patience, #PeopleManagement
