Are you new to shipyard management? If so, you may expect to make a few mistakes along the way. It’s normal and a part of learning something new. But there are some common mistakes that many new managers make, and it’s worth learning from their experience before stumbling into the same traps. Here are some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Do Instead of Delegate
Managers, especially those new to their role, often believe, “if I want something done right, I have to do it myself.” But that can be dangerous for several reasons. First, it takes away from your ability to manage your entire department or project effectively. And second, it doesn’t allow your employees actually to do their jobs, which breeds resentment. Instead, learn to delegate and worry only about the results, not the steps it took to get there.
Overcommitment
A lot of new managers want to make a great impression on those higher to them in the corporate chain of command. That will lead them to overpromise, which eventually results in underdelivering. When you overcommit in your department, you’re creating undue stress for your team. Instead, look at realistic goals and then figure out a way to quickly go above and beyond to make the project successful and memorable.
Failure to Communicate
Communication is essential for every aspect of a business, but as a manager, it’s even more critical that you are competent at it. If you are unable to communicate your expectations to your team, you can’t be upset when they fall short. Instead, focus on delivering clear and effectively and allow yourself to be open to feedback.
Making Unnecessary Changes
Another way new managers tend to sabotage their employees, and ultimately themselves, is by making unnecessary changes to any project just because they want to exert their power. You may not even realize you’re doing it on a conscious level, but that’s what’s happening. Change when it’s necessary and will positively impact the project is encouraged and essential but changes just for the sake of making your team do more work is very disruptive. Your employees will be dissatisfied, and you’ll cause them to feel angry and disloyal.
Do you want to improve your management skills this year? Hutco can help, so call us today.
