How to succeed in a new leadership position
![[Post New]](/jforum/templates/default/images/icon_minipost_new.gif){kind=icon}
Anonymous
|
I'm taking on a management role in a new (to me) government agency and want to start off on the right foot.
I'm looking for advice for dealing with my co-workers all levels - not only how best to work with direct reports (I have the most experience in this area), but people at the same level and especially those who are senior to me (I have the least experience in this area and tend to be shy in approaching them). All of the management books talk about building good relationships up front, but they don't really discuss how to do that in a practical way. Also, this is government, so not all of the traditional management advice applies. Thanks DCUM! |
Anonymous
|
Superiors: manage up
Laterals: coffee dates |
Anonymous
totally agree and underlings: monthly office lunch or birthday cake |
Anonymous
| What does "manage up" mean? |
Anonymous
While this is good advice, understanding the current environment in your agency is key. At VA, there is so much concern about employee engagement that the inmates are running the asylum. SES are scared sh*tless over the legislation that authorizes their removal with minimal due process, so they've circled the wagons. If you're a GS supervisor, your key task will be to keep employees happy. In that environment, be prepared to do things like *ask* people to do their job, versus setting an appropriate expectation. |
Anonymous
http://money.usnews.com/money/careers/articles/2015/08/03/6-tips-for-managing-up-and-what-that-even-means |
Anonymous
Read the article and I still don't get it. **Shrugs shoulders |
Anonymous
| NP here. My understanding of "manage up" is to try to organize your work in a way that is conducive to your boss' preferences. For example, find out how your boss likes to get information. In the hall on the way to the break room? Or with a an email with reading material in advance of a structured meeting? Adjust your style to match the boss' preference. |
Anonymous
|
With your staff: listen, be authentic, don't have and ego or be passive aggressive, set clear and firm expectations.
Peers: Get to know them, foster healthy work relationships. Don't engage in pettiness. Management: adjust to their management style while always looking out for the best interests of your staff. This often requires a nuanced, diplomatic, tight-rope walking act. |
Anonymous
| Learning to flog is very effective. |
Anonymous
| If you don't know something then just say you don't know but you'll find out. I always hated "leaders" who can't accept they don't know everything. |