When you take on your first manager role, people will be watching. What you think, what you say, and how you show up can have a direct impact on those you’re leading. It’s important to project calmness, confidence, and competence, even if you feel stressed out. Recognize that a fleeting moment of anger or impatience may end up hurting your team’s morale. Think about the kind of manager you want to be, and remind yourself of that ideal in every interaction. Use your self-awareness to sense when you are getting wound up. If you maintain a stable, grounded presence, you’ll increase the likelihood that your team will feel comfortable bringing you the important information you need — even when it’s bad news.
Adapted from "How New Managers Can Send the Right Leadership Signals," by Amy Jen Su
