A managerial position is often perceived as the pinnacle of a professional career. Many people associate the role of a team leader with status, respect, and decision-making authority, which are things many people aspire to. However, the reality of leading people and being responsible for results also comes with a darker side: some truths are only realised over time, as managers gain experience and go through lessons that are not always pleasant. Here are four harsh truths every manager will come to understand sooner or later and which are worth knowing as early as possible.
Not everyone will like you, but that's okay
Many managers, especially new ones, strive to maintain good relations with all their team members. They want to be a "great boss” for everyone. But striving to be liked at all costs is the way to burnout. Making decisions sometimes requires saying "no", ending cooperation, or delivering difficult feedback. Some people won't appreciate this. But that's okay. Remember: your task is not to be popular but fair and professional.
Employees observe you more than you think
What you say matters. But what you do matters even more. If you favour one person, overlook someone else, break a promise or, on the contrary, acknowledge performance, your team sees and perceives everything, and forms an opinion of you. How you behave strongly influences their own behaviour and productivity. Don't pretend to be someone you are not, and avoid creating a false sense of trust with subordinates.
The higher you are, the less direct feedback you receive.
Once you become someone’s superior, people stop communicating with you as openly as they did before. They begin telling you what they think you want to hear, while criticism fades. That is dangerous, both for you and your personal growth. You must actively cultivate an environment where people feel safe to speak honestly and are encouraged to share even negative feedback with you.
No one prepares you for the loneliness of leadership.
Managers often discover that with promotion comes solitude. Suddenly, you no longer have someone to confide in; you cease to be "one of the team". Leadership is by nature isolating. That's why it is crucial to build a support network of mentors, peers or coaches who can help you come to terms with your new role and continue to grow in a sustainable way.
-mm-