Summary net4tec @ Virtual Morning Session #9
How to set up first-time leaders for success
28.05.2020 – Online 

Managing a project in a group, transitioning from an individual contributor into a management role or starting a leadership career may seem harder than expected but it does not have to be. First-time leaders can prepare themselves for a successful start by self-reflection, putting themselves in other people’s shoes and acting as a role model. #FirstTimeLeader

Katrin Grunwald, the founder of The Globe Team, an organizational development consultancy supporting teams worldwide in working better together through on-site and virtual team development workshops is an expert for first-time leaders. She held a very interactive and pragmatic session with #net4tec explaining what should be done before starting as a leader. Together we explored the dos and don’ts of for future first time leaders and discussed recommendations for leaders of first-time leaders to make the transition from team member to team leader a success. #Leader

Asses your situation

In a small check in exercise everyone selected an item on their desk and shared their personal hashtag on leadership (i.e. #Feedback, #Knowyourself, #Transparency, #Inspiration, #ActiveListening, #Trust, #Communication #Learning etc.). After that everyone had a chance to assess their current leadership situation. Surprisingly half of the participants are leading a team already while the other half is planning to lead one in the future or simply was curious. The biggest challenge for most of the participants was moving from their own expertise to managing others with expertise. #Leadership

Self-reflection before starting

Before jumping into a new leadership role or just a project it is recommended to take a step back and set a good foundation by self-reflection. When looking at the concept of leadership it is advisable to look at three different aspects – self, team, and context. During the session, several practical options and questions have been presented to self-reflect around these three aspects. #Selfreflection

Self – What kind of leader do I want to be?

Look at yourself first and observe all leaders you have met throughout your life. Take a piece of paper and write down examples considering everybody who shaped you. The following list of question can be used as a guidance. #Awareness

Team – How can I communicate with my team?

Put yourself into the shoes of your team to understand them individually. Find out what is on their mind to best support them and how to communicate with them. Do not be afraid to ask! #Communication

Context – How to best manage expectations?

Think about yourself from different perspectives and see how you can best manage the different expectations coming from people around you (i.e. team, peers, boss).  Reach out for conversations and consider the following questions. #Expectations

Recommendations for successful start

To ensure a successful start, it is advisable to create a leadership manifest. It is a valuable idea to have face-to-face meetings with your team members as well as a team workshop to establish trust. Explore the context together with your team. On the other hand, you should avoid jumping right into action without building a relationship with your team. Do not be afraid to communicate as often and as early as you can. Never assume others are like you. #Trust

Input for leaders of first time leaders

At the end, the important role of leaders of first-time leaders in setting first-time leaders up for success has been discussed. As any leader always act as a role mode, show empathy, and give guidance to your team. #Rolemodel

Key take away

 

Christine Koch net4tec
Munich Support