Does your current managerial position suck you into a vacuum leaving you with little or no room for personal development? It is quite common for some managers to be overwhelmed. Aside from dealing with the demands of the job, these professionals also have to keep a hawk-eye on their staff or subordinates to ensure that goals or targets are reached. But while some stressful situations wane after a busy season, there are some situations that simply gnaws at them or worst, have no chance of abating in the long term perspective. When this happens, it is important to make necessary win-win solutions so the situation won’t wreak havoc in the workplace and in your personal life.
To get you started, here are some tried-and-tested tips to handle a stressful managerial job.
Effective Delegation
Learn the subtle yet firm art of delegation. It is deemed a must for managers to know the proper way of sharing work responsibilities particularly on certain aspects that require expertise or experience. Sales prospecting, for instance, can be given to company sales reps while business development representatives can focus on product or competition research. Administrative assistants can go around organizing reports and files as well as in answering emails, phone calls, and customer complaints.
In short, you cannot do it all. As a manager, it is essential that you work not just as a leader but also as a member of the team. Learn the core competencies of each of your team members and assign appropriate tasks to fit their skills and expertise. The first few weeks or months can be an uphill battle, but with time and consistent relationship-building, you can learn to trust the people who works with you.
Set Work Limits
Achieving work-life balance is a rare commodity among managers. These professionals are often observed to work extended number of hours, with some bringing their work load at home– to the detriment of their personal relationships. Before you come to a breaking point, it is essential to set certain limits or parameters at work.
Try to enforce strict work limits. Discourage work overtime as this will not only wreak havoc to the proverbial work-life balance but also fosters inefficiency. Instill appropriate duty hours for your subordinates and yourself without sacrificing productivity. Lunch breaks must be observed to ensure that everyone has proper nourishment to last them the whole time. Brainstorm or consult with your team in the morning then, do personal work matters in the afternoon. Discourage phone call consultation, but rather make sure everyone goes home with a clean work slate. Always take time to attend to your family to strengthen personal relationship. Taking some R&R every now and then is also highly recommended.
Timely Feedback
Always take time to gather and give feedback from and to your subordinates, respectively. As a manager, you have the responsibility to inform all employees under your watch. Give and receive constructive criticisms to allow room for growth leading to a more productive workplace. Ask for suggestions on certain matters that challenge the harmonious relationship in a workplace. Foster a collaborative leadership style and positive camaraderie at work. Doing so will help build a workplace environment that’s built on mutual respect and trust.
