We’ve all had them – bad managers. People in charge who make you feel as if you don’t want to come to work, or at least elicit an inward eye-roll. You vow that when you reach those senior positions, you will not be that boss. But managing people is hard, and there are pitfalls along the way. Below, you’ll find a few things to avoid doing when you are managing – some of them you might not even realise you were guilty of.
Lack of Praise
Your management style might be quite laid back and casual. You might think you have a friendly rapport with the people in your team but remember that they still appreciate being told they’ve done a good job, however awkward you might find it to tell a grown adult ‘Well done.’ You may be the kind of manager who will give great supportive feedback when an employee is struggling with a task, but this is only half the battle. Without praise for a job well completed, they will be in a state of uncertainty as to how well they are achieving.
Hollow Promises
Remember, your employees look up to you and so what, to you, might be a casual remark, is something they will hold on to. If you haven’t checked whether you can offer training, an opportunity and definitely a raise, don’t bring it up with them until you’re sure it can go ahead. There’s nothing wrong with telling them you’ll have to double-check a request from them, but if it’s an offer you are discussing with them, make sure it’s all above board before starting to mention it.
Don’t Gossip
Socialising with your team is important and heading out for a few drinks on a Friday night to unwind after a long week is an important part of maintaining morale. But remember, loose lips sink ships – if you get chatty after one too many, put a limit on your drinks that night and then leave them to it. This goes for any situation in the workplace – it is deeply unprofessional to discuss other members of staff with one another and you will be privy to information that your team members don’t know about each other. They shouldn’t ask you, but make sure not to offer personal or private information or speculate about other colleagues.
Don’t Let Training Become a Chore
We’ve all been to that presentation or meeting that lasts twice the length of time it needed to and was given by someone utterly unengaging. In the same way that you would hire a trainer to deliver specific learning, you can now use a corporate training platform. This is a great way to ensure your employees and engaged and interacting with their training. You can also monitor their progress to check they’re keeping up to date.
There are many ways to create a good workplace environment and ensure that your management style is working for your team. Remember, everyone makes mistakes and don’t be afraid to ask for help or acknowledge when you’ve made a mistake. A great manager works with their employees, not against them.
