Stepping into a leadership role for the first time is both exciting and challenging. You’re now responsible not just for your own work but for guiding, supporting, and inspiring others. However, navigating this new role often comes with a few bumps along the way. Here are six mistakes I made early on in my journey as a leader and some actionable tips to help you avoid them.
1️⃣ Mistake: Radiating Stress to Your Team
The Problem: When I was new to management, I mistakenly thought that showing my stress would signal to the team how important our work was. Instead, it only added to their stress, making the environment tense and less productive.
Solution: It’s essential to manage your stress, especially in front of your team. If you feel pressured, take a moment to collect yourself before walking into a meeting. Focus on using clear goals and enthusiasm to motivate your team rather than stress. A calm demeanor, even under pressure, reassures your team and keeps everyone focused.
2️⃣ Mistake: Being Indirect with Your Requests
The Problem: I was hesitant to give direct instructions, fearing I’d come across as too demanding. Instead of saying, “I need this project completed by Wednesday,” I’d say, “It would be helpful if we could work on this soon.” This led to misunderstandings and missed deadlines.
Solution: Clear communication is key in leadership. Be specific about what you need, why it’s important, and when it should be completed. For example, try, “Please have the report ready by Wednesday at noon. It’s crucial for our meeting with the board.” This clarity makes expectations easier to understand and meet.
3️⃣ Mistake: Not Knowing When to Be Directive vs. Hands-Off
The Problem: As a new leader, I didn’t recognize that different team members have different needs. Some thrive with independence, while others prefer more guidance. I delegated the same way to everyone, which sometimes left people feeling unsupported.
Solution: Take the time to understand each team member’s working style and comfort level. For seasoned team members, provide a high-level goal and let them chart their course. For those who are new or need more direction, break tasks into smaller steps and check in more frequently. This flexible approach not only helps team members perform better but also shows them you value their individual strengths and needs.
4️⃣ Mistake: Not Providing Enough Context
The Problem: I often assumed my team understood the “why” behind our projects, but without context, they sometimes made choices that didn’t align with our goals. It wasn’t their fault—they simply didn’t have the full picture.
Solution: Begin each project by explaining the purpose and desired outcomes. Let your team know why their work matters and how it fits into the larger goals. For example, if they’re preparing a report, explain, “This report will help the board see our progress toward long-term goals, so accuracy and detail are crucial.” This helps them make better decisions and feel more connected to the work.
5️⃣ Mistake: Overloading the Team with Too Much Information
The Problem: After realizing the importance of context, I went too far the other way, giving too much background and detail on every project. I could see team members’ eyes glazing over as I delved into the nitty-gritty.
Solution: Provide just the information they need to get started, then let them ask questions if they need more. Before sharing, ask yourself, “What is essential for them to know to do this well?” Simplifying and focusing on the key points keeps them engaged and allows them to take ownership of their roles without feeling overwhelmed.
6️⃣ Mistake: Not Celebrating Wins Often Enough
The Problem: I was so focused on our next goals that I often skipped over celebrating our successes. This left team members feeling like their hard work wasn’t recognized, which impacted motivation.
Solution: Make it a priority to celebrate achievements regularly, both big and small. At the start of each team meeting, consider asking, “What are our wins this week?” Encourage everyone to share something they’re proud of. This builds a positive team culture and makes each person feel valued. A simple “well done” can go a long way in making people feel appreciated.
Final Thoughts: Leadership Is a Learning Process
If you’re new to a leadership role, know that mistakes are part of the journey. With every challenge, you’ll gain insights that make you a better leader. By staying open, learning from your experiences, and listening to your team, you’ll create a positive environment where everyone, including yourself, can thrive.
Let your mistakes be stepping stones, not stumbling blocks. Embrace the journey and keep growing—both as a leader and as a team.
Have you experienced any of these challenges? Share your thoughts below! Let’s learn from each other’s experiences.
