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In our childhood, many of us remember the sheer joy of showing our parents a perfect report card, eagerly shouting, "Daddy, Daddy look, I got an A!" This innocent desire to seek approval and recognition is natural and often carries into our adult lives. For new managers, this desire manifests in a drive to prove their worth, demonstrate their capabilities, and validate their promotion. However, while this ambition is commendable, it can lead to unintended consequences that harm their teams and overall performance.

The Pitfalls of Seeking Approval

When new managers step into their roles, they often feel an immense pressure to impress their hiring managers and stakeholders. In their eagerness to showcase their competence, they may resort to tactics that undermine their team’s morale and cohesion. Here are some common pitfalls:

  1. Throwing the Team Under the Bus: To highlight their own capabilities, new managers may excessively point out the shortcomings of their team or predecessors. This approach not only damages trust but also demoralizes the team, leading to a toxic work environment.
  2. Overcommitting to Customers: In an attempt to please customers and establish strong relationships, new managers might make commitments they cannot keep. This can result in missed deadlines, overworked staff, and ultimately, dissatisfied customers.
  3. Highlighting Deficiencies: By focusing on the gaps and deficiencies they have discovered, new managers might create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity. Instead of fostering collaboration and improvement, this approach can lead to defensiveness and resistance among team members.

The Right Way to Earn Respect and Build Trust

While the desire to impress is natural, it is crucial for new managers to understand that true leadership is not about proving oneself at the expense of others. Here are some strategies to help new managers navigate their roles effectively:

  1. Empower and Support Your Team: Acknowledge the strengths and contributions of your team members. Encourage them to take ownership of their work and provide the necessary support to help them succeed. This approach fosters a positive and collaborative environment.
  2. Manage Commitments Wisely: Be realistic about what you and your team can deliver. Set achievable goals and manage customer expectations effectively. This builds credibility and trust with both your team and customers.
  3. Focus on Continuous Improvement: Instead of highlighting deficiencies, adopt a mindset of continuous improvement. Work with your team to identify areas for growth and develop plans to address them together. This approach promotes a culture of learning and development.
  4. Communicate Transparently: Open and honest communication is key to building trust. Keep your team informed about decisions, changes, and expectations. Encourage feedback and be receptive to their concerns and suggestions.
  5. Lead by Example: Demonstrate the behaviors and values you expect from your team. Show integrity, accountability, and a commitment to excellence. Your actions will inspire others to follow suit.

Conclusion

New managers have a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on their teams and organizations. By shifting the focus from seeking approval to building trust and fostering collaboration, they can create an environment where everyone thrives. Remember, true leadership is not about proving you got an A; it's about helping your entire team achieve success together.

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