The_Essential_Manager_s_Handbook

PREPARING TO LEAD / 101

Being creative

Your arrival as a team’s new leader will

raise expectations of change for the

better. However, you may discover that

some expectations are less than realistic.

For example, your team’s previous leader

may have provided detailed guidance

on how work should be carried out; if

your leadership style is more about

empowering your team to make their

own decisions, they may initially feel

poorly supported and even resentful

of the added responsibility. Early in your

tenure, ask others what assumptions

they have about you and your role.

-^ Outline what success looks like to you.
Does their view match yours?
-^ What expectations do they have of how
long things will take?
-^ Have they been made any unrealistic
promises about what you will deliver?
You can then begin to address any
discrepancies between their expectations
and your reality.

Are you ready

for anything?

What are the aims of your

organization or team?

Who are your key stakeholders?

Are there potential problems?

What are the processes, culture,

and structure of the organization?

How are internal systems audited?

Are your findings complete

and accurate?

Ask crucial questions

US_100-101_Preparing_to_Lead.indd 101 31/05/16 5:28 pm