Managing a team is no small feat, especially for those new to leadership roles. The transition
often comes with a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to balancing workload
and taking vacation time. Here, we explore 12 common issues managers encounter and offer
insights on how to navigate them effectively.
1. Overwhelming Workload
New managers often find themselves swamped with tasks, from overseeing projects to handling
administrative duties. This can lead to stress and burnout if not managed properly.
Prioritize tasks and delegate when possible. Leadership effectiveness and coaching can make
leading a team and handling a heavy workload much more manageable.
2. Reluctance to Delegate
Many managers struggle with delegation, fearing that no one else can do the job as well as they
can. This reluctance can lead to micromanagement and an unsustainable workload.
Trust your team and empower them with responsibilities. Delegation not only lightens your load
but also fosters team growth and development. There is an art to setting up an ask properly so
the engaged team member is successfully in the delegated task.
3. Difficulty Taking Vacation
Managers often feel guilty about taking time off, worrying about the impact on their team and
projects. This mindset can prevent them from recharging and returning with fresh perspectives.
Plan and ensure there's a capable point person in your absence. Communicate your time off
well in advance and trust your team to handle things while you're away. When managers take
time off for vacation, it communicates to the team that wellness and rest is important and that
the team can also priorities vacation and wellness.
4. Balancing Leadership and Building Strong Relationships with the Team
Striking the right balance between being a leader and building strong relationship with your
team can be tricky. Too much focus on one can undermine the other. Establish clear boundaries
and communicate openly. It's possible to be approachable and supportive while maintaining
professional boundaries.
5. Time Management
Effective time management is a common struggle, as managers juggle meetings, emails, and
their own tasks. Utilize tools and techniques such as time-blocking, prioritizing tasks, and setting
clear goals for each day. Regularly review and adjust your schedule as needed. Strategies for better time management is a frequent topic that arises in coaching conversations especially as
new managers make the adjustment from individual contributor to team leader.
6. Coaching and Mentoring
Providing guidance and support to team members is a crucial aspect of management, but it can
be time-consuming and challenging. Schedule regular coaching sessions and be present for
impromptu mentoring moments. Develop a framework for these interactions to make them more
effective and efficient. Coaching skills is something that comes with practice, but having a list of
clear coaching questions and frameworks makes this easier.
7. Maintaining Work-Life Balance
Managers often find themselves working long hours, which can lead to burnout and decreased
productivity over time. Set boundaries for work hours and stick to them. Encourage your team to
do the same, fostering a culture that values work-life balance.
8. Handling Difficult Conversations
Addressing performance issues or conflicts within the team can be daunting, especially for new
managers. Approach these conversations with empathy and a clear plan. Practice active
listening and focus on finding solutions rather than placing blame.
9. Managing Upwards
Balancing the expectations of upper management and the needs of your team can be
challenging. Communicate clearly and consistently with both sides. Set realistic goals and
manage expectations by being transparent about progress and potential roadblocks.
10. Performance Management & Accountability
There is often reluctance to give difficult feedback and hold direct reports accountable for poor
performance. By holding direct reports accountable for their actions, it is raising the bar to
clearly communicate what standards are acceptable.
11. Navigating Organizational Politics
Understanding and maneuvering through organizational politics can be a significant challenge
for new managers. Build strong relationships across the organization and stay neutral. Focus on
what's best for your team and the company, rather than getting involved in politics.
12. Cultivating Leadership Presence
Adjusting to the concept of being the leader can take awhile for new people managers to feel
like they fit into that role and to feel comfortable establishing or asserting one’s authority. The
challenge is often about with moving from a coworker to a superior and gaining respect while
maintaining established positive personal relationships. Adapting to the new responsibility that
comes from moving from individual contributor to a manager. The ability to influence, manage,
and coordinate employees that are not in one’s direct line of authority is a learned skill.
PowerUp Leadership was founded with the vision of creating more inspired leadership in our workplaces. Our BHAG is to create 1,000,000 inspired leaders by 2033 through our leadership development programs. Our sweet spot is supporting new people managers to build leadership
capability and skills.
