If you are a new manager with an inexperienced team, what problems should you be worried about?
There are two. But first, let’s take a moment to think about all the things you’ve got going for you. Young teams, especially with new managers, have got to be the most excited, energized groups in business. They’re usually devoid of the “been there, done that” mindset that afflicts so many experienced teams. They rarely see challenges as impossible. And they often embrace change with gusto. If only you could bottle those qualities!
But you’re right: Inexperienced teams have their issues. The first is that they tend to be unfamiliar with the level of risk the organization can absorb. That’s why you, even as a new manager yourself, have to make sure your people understand the balance between being strategically bold, which is often good, and respecting the boundaries of acceptable risk, which is always necessary.
The second issue concerns you as team leader. Too often, inexperienced managers like to hire friends, or at least people who feel safe. Fight that urge. Seek out people who are better, smarter, and in every way more talented than you are. They’ll push the organization to new heights of performance. And we guarantee your career will follow.
This question and answer originally appeared in Business Week magazine on March 10, 2008.
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