My two cents on LEADERSHIP today:
First- Time Manager--> Try it. Take the courage, come prepare and focus on making meaningful contributions rather than striving for perfection. It's okay to make mistakes or stumble over words occasionally. And it’s ok to be afraid.
Find more tips inside.
Leader--> If you are leading a team where criticism happens more than contribution, you should act. Creating a culture where contribution is an asset, more than criticism, will be one of your great achievements as a leader. By The Way- “this is not the way we do it” should not be an answer to any contribution.
Being the voice of your team is not that simple. Navigating management meetings as a first-time manager can feel like stepping onto a tightrope without a safety net. Having worked closely with hundreds of first-time managers over the years, I've seen firsthand how finding one's voice can be one of the most daunting challenges.
The fear of expressing thoughts and ideas, the apprehension of being judged, and the uncertainty about one's capabilities can be paralyzing. However, effective communication in these settings isn't just beneficial—it's vital for your growth as a leader and for the success of your team.
I vividly recall working with a manager who experienced severe panic symptoms before every management meeting due to this fear. Despite leading a small team for the first time, his role was pivotal for the company's strategy, which led the CEO to want him by his side in leadership meetings. However, the expectation of representing his team's voice in such high-level discussions left him feeling overwhelmed with self-doubt and a lack of experience in front of a seasoned management team.
Despite having valuable insights to contribute, he battled with self-doubt and the fear of not being taken seriously. His silence not only hindered her professional development but also deprived his team of potentially game-changing ideas. With each missed opportunity to speak up, he felt more isolated and disconnected from his role.
The transition from individual contributor to leader can be daunting, and the pressure to perform can feel suffocating. The fear of speaking up often stems from a combination of factors—imposter syndrome, fear of judgment, and a lack of confidence in one's own expertise. These psychological barriers can inhibit effective communication and hinder personal and professional growth.
Working one-on-one was crucial, and we practiced several strategies that eventually helped them progress:
1. Practice Vulnerability:
Sharing fears and concerns with a trusted mentor helped him embrace vulnerability. Pairing with the right internal mentor provided an extra safe space to share and practice vulnerability, fostering connection and empathy with others.
2. Prepare and Practice:
Thorough preparation and practice were essential in building confidence and reducing anxiety. Researching topics, organizing thoughts, and anticipating questions were key. Over time, practicing speaking in front of a mirror or with trusted colleagues further bolstered confidence.
3. Focus on Contribution, Not Perfection:
Understanding that mistakes are inevitable was the first step. Focusing on making meaningful contributions, rather than striving for perfection, was crucial. Active participation and sharing perspectives with the team mattered most.
4. Set Realistic Expectations:
Setting small, achievable goals for speaking up in meetings, such as making one comment or asking one question per meeting, helped build confidence gradually.
5. Practice Self-Compassion:
Being kind and understanding toward oneself, especially in moments of anxiety or insecurity about speaking up, was crucial. Practicing self-compassion cultivated inner strength and resilience.
Over time, this manager became more willing to express themselves and provide important contributions in management meetings. The direct connection between self-confidence and business results became evident.
To conclude:
voicing your thoughts and ideas in management meetings isn't just a skill—it's a mindset. Embracing opportunities to speak up, even when uncomfortable, not only amplifies your impact as a leader but also fosters a culture of open communication and collaboration within your team. Remember, finding your voice is a journey, not a destination. With each contribution, you grow more confident and empowered to make a difference.
If you're managing a first-time manager and reading this, be aware of the challenges they may face and look for symptoms. If you lead a team where criticism outweighs contribution, act. Creating a culture where contribution is valued over criticism is a significant achievement as a leader. And remember, "this is not the way we do it" should not be an answer to any contribution.
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