Weâve all heard the phrase âfake it before you make it,â and some of us have probably had to fake it in high pressure instances. But what happens when you are put in a leadership role, when you are still figuring out the intricacies of your business? This is a tough situation for many.
When hired as a new manager, the most common approach is to enter a new business, assess the landscape for 2-3 months, and then spring up from the ground ready to lead a team to victory. However, whether you lack prior leadership experience or you are struggling with the balance of leading a team and getting acclimated to a new job; you need to fake it before you can make it.
Everyone who follows has something that is keeping them from being a great leader. Some people are simply too shy and others simply havenât applied themselves within a niche industry. However, when itâs time to stand tall and self doubt creeps in; remember to never show your internal weaknesses. The way you are perceived is one of the key things you must master before filling in your role as a new leader.
Any new manager or executive must work to gain respect within an organization; and the way people perceive you are is a key component of that respect. Here are 3 tips for helping to improve your image:
- Dress Neat- Just because you are the manager doesnât mean you need to make a fashion statement. Keep a consistent look that is in line with the type of management style you are trying to exhibit.
- Look People in the Eye- This is one of the biggest challenges a lot of young leaders face; not looking people in the eye when they are talking to you is disrespectful and shows lack of maturity. If you have a hard time making eye contact, try looking between the eyes, or on a person’s forward.
- Be Aware That Someone is Always Watching You- Sometimes non-verbal cues say more about you than anything that comes out of your mouth. Be aware that in most cases, as a manager, someone is always watching you for guidance. Keep great posture and always try and keep a level head (literally and figuratively).
It isnât difficult to command respect, if youâve never held a management role, but you must be confident. Confidence is an ingredient that far too many people lack, so faking it sometimes is necessary. A great way to start is by simply meeting with people within your organization and gathering personalities. For the first few months, focus your energy on the things that matter, which is creating a trusting relationship with your employees.
The more respect you command, the better people will listen to you when that time comes to âget something done now!â Keep your internal pressures within and put on your poker face, itâs your time to lead a team. Donât doubt what you already know, if some of the greatest leaders doubted their knowledge they would have gone down in history. Make a change, step up to the plate and be comfortable in your skin!
Matt Krautstrunk is a writer and social entrepreneur, touching on topics ranging from social media marketing to telephone systems for Resource Nation; and online resource providing purchasing advice for small business owners and entrepreneur