Guest post by Rachel Jackson.

All your hard work has paid off. You’ve finally been recognized as the valuable asset to your organization that you strive to be, and you’ve been rewarded with a promotion to management.

Congratulations! Whether you’re leading three people or 30, here are some tips for cementing your new leadership role so that you can build a better team.

Have an Open-Door Policy

An office allows you to close the door if you need to have a private discussion with one of your team members, as opposed to having those conversations in a sea of cubicles. However, if you’re not engaged in a private conversation, your door should never be closed. You should also arrange your office so that you are accessible to your staff; make sure that your desk faces the door and people can make eye contact when entering.

Get to Know Your Staff

Take the time to learn about your team. Get to know their strengths and their weaknesses, how they work, and a little bit about their personal lives. Understanding what drives and motivates your employees will help you to guide them effectively. Learn the ins and outs of who gets along, who works best independently, and who can help bring the team together.
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