How To Become A Stronger People Manager With A Simple Mindset Shift

Becoming a stronger people manager can be a challenging task, especially for those who are used to being in charge and giving orders. However, with a simple mindset shift, you can transform your leadership style and become a more effective coach to your team members. In this article, we will explore the benefits of adopting a coaching mindset, and provide practical tips on how to make the transition.

The Traditional Project Taskmaster Approach

Many managers still rely on a traditional approach to leadership, where they assign tasks and monitor progress, often with a focus on deadlines and productivity. This style of management can be effective in the short-term, but it can also lead to burnout, low morale, and high turnover rates among team members.

The Coaching Mindset Alternative

A coaching mindset, on the other hand, focuses on developing the skills and abilities of team members, rather than simply assigning tasks. By adopting a coaching approach, managers can create a positive work environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, and growth.

Benefits of Adopting a Coaching Mindset

1. Improved Employee Engagement: When team members feel that their manager is invested in their development, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated.
2. Increased Productivity: By focusing on the growth of individual team members, managers can help them become more efficient and productive in their roles.
3. Better Decision Making: When team members are empowered to make decisions and solve problems, they develop critical thinking skills that lead to better decision making.
4. Enhanced Creativity: A coaching mindset encourages team members to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions to challenges.
5. Stronger Leadership Pipeline: By developing the skills of team members, managers can create a strong leadership pipeline that benefits the entire organization.

Practical Tips for Making the Transition

1. Start by Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses: Take the time to get to know each team member’s strengths and weaknesses, and use this information to tailor your coaching approach.
2. Set Goals and Provide Feedback: Work with team members to set achievable goals, and provide regular feedback on their progress.
3. Encourage Problem Solving: Instead of solving problems for your team, encourage them to come up with solutions and strategies.
4. Foster a Growth Mindset: Emphasize the idea that intelligence and abilities can be developed through hard work, dedication, and persistence.
5. Be Available and Approachable: Make yourself available to team members for guidance and support, and be approachable enough that they feel comfortable coming to you with questions or concerns.
6. Provide Opportunities for Growth: Offer training, mentorship, and opportunities for advancement to help team members develop their skills and grow in their roles.
7. Celebrate Successes: Recognize and celebrate the successes of your team members, both big and small, to reinforce positive behavior and motivation.

Conclusion

Becoming a stronger people manager requires a shift in mindset, from a project taskmaster to a coach. By adopting a coaching approach, managers can create a positive work environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, and growth among team members. With practical tips and strategies, managers can make the transition to a coaching mindset and become more effective leaders. Remember, the goal is not to simply assign tasks, but to develop the skills and abilities of your team members, and help them grow both personally and professionally.