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Tips for Managing a Team

Tips for Managing a Team

Teams are all going to be different, as is the person leading them. But, there are a few key factors which should be used to ensure your team in productive and successful.

Transparency

Transparency, as well as good communication, are key when managing a team. It not only shows a level of respect between you and your team, but it also ensures they know exactly where they stand with you and with the tasks they have been assigned.

Communication

For projects to run smoothly, effective communication is always needed. If your team isn't coordinated when they should be, then they have failed to communicate well.

Aim to keep an open line of communication with your team, so they know they can come to you for guidance, and when they do listen to them and try to advise where you can.

Collaboration

Encourage your team to learn from one another, they all have different skills and levels of experience and will gain a huge amount by collaborating with others and being shown new skills first hand.

Allow your team to do their jobs

You have to trust your team members, you know they have the skills and abilities to do their jobs. So, leave them to crack on with it. But, make sure they can contact you if needed.

Delegation

Having the ability to delegate is a really important skill. You may sometimes feel like it's your job to do everything, when that isn't the case at all. Sharing out work, and being able to decide who’s best suited for the project is important.

Regular Discussions

Regular meetings and discussions about work allows you and the team to stay updated on what’s going on and what still needs doing.

Promote a healthy work/life balance

You want to try and set a good example for a healthy work/life balance. You really want to avoid team burnout. Setting start and finish times is now more challenging with hybrid and more flexible work schedules. So, why not set a number of hours you expect to be done per day, and be firm that's the maximum that should be done.

Every person is different.

Every person reacts and responds differently to things. It’s your job to ensure you know how to communicate well with each individual. Some will respond better to more serious direct messages whereas others prefer a softer approach. It's important to get to know everyone on your team individually, so you understand their favoured working environment.

Issues

Resolve any problems or disputes in a professional manner. It’s only natural that people will disagree, and if you have to step in try and reach a compromise which suits both parties. Addressing things sooner rather than later is the best approach.

Recognition and Appreciation

Showing your appreciation for the team and their hard work, will drive motivation and reduce levels of burnout. It’s a nice boost to hear you’re doing well, and your efforts are appreciated. Sincerely showing your thanks will also help build a strong and respectable relationship between yourself and your team.

As a manager the most important thing for you to do is to stay enthusiastic and positive, this is the key motivator for teams.

Stay Safe,

Team Affecto.