First Know your People, Then Lead

Coming into a new Company or position can be very stressful for you and your "new" team.
Over the years I have had many opportunities to meet new leaders and one of the earliest lessons I learned is that a new leader coming into the organization is just as stressed as their team is. So much apprehension and uncertainty surrounding the team and what changes may be coming and how they are going to "get along" with the new "guy".

The worst thing a new leader can do is step in and start making changes. This is a process that is best shared with your new team.

Another very common mistake people make is trying to lead before the people see you as their leader.

You need to be prepared to lead your team and that takes time. You need to build relationships with your team members. Don't get me wrong your position on the team comes with some basic responsibility and authority, but those do not make you a leader it makes you a manager and there is a big difference.

Try spending time getting to know your employees and their families. Building an authentic relationship with them is key to building trust. Try to spend time with your team outside of the work environment, this will allow them to see you as a person not the "boss". Make sure to have fun.

Spend one on one time with each of your employees, find out what makes them tick, where the life has taken them, where they are heading and what matters most to them. Engage them where they are at right now to start achieving some goals for success. Show them you are willing to sacrifice the same way they do, you don't have to be able to do the same job as them, just be willing to pay the same prize for success.

If you can build an authentic relationship and gain their trust, the leading part will come naturally.

God Bless.