Overcome These Obstacles as a First-Time Manager

It is inevitable that as a first-time manager, you will encounter challenges with employees, productivity and training. While employees can be difficult to please, and you may even be new at delegating tasks, that doesn't mean you can't succeed in the position. Identify common workplace obstacles to prepare yourself for how to overcome daily challenges in management.

The Challenge to Authority

Many first-time managers fall into a trap of assuming authority without proving that they have the knowledge and training to lead a team, explains Anne Marie Cooley with Careerealism. Resist the temptation to lay down the law when you first arrive on the job. Instead, encourage employees to provide input, be proactive and contribute to the overall decisions being made. Work as a team player before assuming all the authority from the first day on the job. Conquer these workplace obstacles by showing that you are willing to listen, observe, and take actions that have the best interest of the company and the employees in mind.

Managing Instead of Leading

There is a key difference between managing and leading. A first-time manager is responsible for overseeing the projects and tasks assigned to employees, whereas a leader identifies the overall goals of a department and its employees and works with teams to delegate tasks based on each team member's strengths. Leaders work side by side with team members and ensure employees have the training and resources they need to be productive. A management leadership style is appropriate at times, but if you adopt more of a leader style, you have the potential to improve the team dynamic.

The Fake Out

It is often difficult to enter a new position and take the lead when you are unaware of how the company operates and how the team works together. Common workplace obstacles are often much more prominent when you choose to be someone you are not. Avoid taking on a persona that is not genuine. Be real with your staff instead, and show that you have strong communication skills and are willing to learn from your team.

Jumping the Gun

If you try to manage as if you know everything, you can expect to have frequent workplace obstacles that are met with resistance from your team. The reality is that all team members have different strengths and weaknesses. You may have been appointed as the manager, but it doesn't mean you know all of the ins and outs of business operations. Take the time to work alongside your staff and show that you have much to learn as well.

Not every manager finds success right away in a new position. Workplace obstacles are common, but with patience, know-how and genuine communication, you can work through any challenges that come your way.

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