Author: André L. Belleville
Today, I am eager to address a topic of profound significance, particularly for those among us who are young managers striving to achieve rapid expansion of their teams. Having coached and mentored numerous aspiring managers myself, this issue resonates deeply with me. I must candidly confess that in my managerial journey, I too stumbled into the corporate allure of equating headcount with authority. Allow me to share a personal anecdote from when I was 29 years old and had just transitioned to the role of team manager.
I vividly recall the excitement that surged within me upon moving to "the other side of the table" – the exhilarating shift from team member to team leader. At that juncture, the conviction held me in its grasp that overseeing a larger number of individuals would inherently confer greater power and significance. This conviction, however, was swiftly met with a jarring reality check.
Taking charge of a dedicated team of seven individuals, each with an unwavering commitment to ambitious goals marked a pivotal moment in my career. The journey we embarked upon together was nothing short of extraordinary, punctuated not just by remarkable achievements but also by an exhilarating sense of camaraderie and shared triumph. This journey taught me a profound lesson: that genuine leadership transcends numerical metrics and lies in nurturing growth and collaboration.
In those early days, transitioning from an individual contributor to a manager demands a fundamental change in mindset. No longer are you the sole focal point of your work. Instead, your success is intricately tied to the collective achievements of your team. It's a subtle yet profound realization that marks the first step toward impactful leadership.
Be a catalyst for your team's success
Your primary responsibility as a young manager is to be a catalyst for your team's success. This involves not only guiding their efforts toward organizational objectives but also understanding that your role now centers on enabling their accomplishments. To do this effectively, you must learn the art of inspiration and motivation. By recognizing the unique strengths and talents of each team member, you can create an environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.
Become a "Bridge-Builder" & Advocate for Your Team
Becoming an advocate for your team is an integral aspect of your journey. This entails championing their contributions and needs both within the organization and to external stakeholders. Your ability to articulate their achievements and present their challenges demonstrates your commitment to their growth. It's an elevation from a traditional managerial role to that of a bridge-builder between your team and the broader business landscape.
Read and Listen between the Lines
Embracing the complexities of your team's dynamics requires a deep understanding of their aspirations, challenges, and experiences. Your role extends beyond monitoring progress; it involves empathetically reading between the lines to comprehend the nuances that impact performance. By focusing on individual strengths, you foster an environment where everyone can thrive, resulting in a stronger collective performance.
Allow Balance between Guidance and Autonomy
Challenges will inevitably emerge, providing opportunities for both you and your team to learn and grow. Your experience equips you with valuable insights, but it's crucial to strike a balance between guidance and autonomy. Allowing your team to make mistakes while being there to offer support is a delicate equilibrium that nurtures resilience and accountability.
Take your Time and Build your Authenticity
As you evolve, your leadership style will take shape. Authenticity is your guiding principle. Resist the urge to mimic others; instead, cultivate a style that resonates with your personality, values, and vision. Engaging a coach as an external resource can be transformative. Their unbiased perspective and expertise provide invaluable guidance as you navigate the complexities of managerial responsibilities.
Ultimately, the fallacy of "headcount equals power" becomes evident as you embark on your managerial journey. True power emanates from your capacity to empower your team, fostering an environment where every member can contribute their best. As a young manager, your impact transcends numerical metrics; it's measured by the growth, collaboration, and achievements of your team. Embrace this realization, and you'll discover the authentic path to becoming an influential and impactful leader.