From Team Member to Team Leader

In my early twenties (a long time ago!) I was promoted to being the manager of a small Jewellery store with 5 staff.  I was proud to be given the promotion but I was also terrified as I’d never managed anyone (or anything for that matter) in my life.  The company was relatively small so any training was completely out of the question – it wasn’t on anyone’s radar.  I soon found out how difficult the transition from operative to manager was, and it wasn’t made any easier when two of the staff couldn’t stand the sight of each other and the atmosphere within the store was unbearable.  I had no idea what to do about it and thought, if I ask my bosses, they’ll think I’m hopeless.  The result was that takings plummeted and I got a weekly telling off from the owners – not support, not training but a telling off.  I didn’t last very long with the firm – one Saturday afternoon I handed the keys to one of the staff and said ‘you better take these, I won’t be back on Monday’.

Reflecting on this experience, after years of being a company director, it’s obvious to me now that support and training are key to ensuring the transition is as pain free as possible. Embarking on this transition comes with many challenges and that overcoming them can be a highly rewarding experience for personal and professional growth.

In this blog, I’ll explore the key aspects of this transformation and give some tips on how to make a successful transition.

1. Embrace the Mindset Shift: Moving from an operative role to a leadership position requires a profound shift in mindset. While operatives focus primarily on their individual tasks, team leaders must prioritise the collective success of the team. It’s essential to let go of the ‘I’ mentality and adopt a ‘we’ mentality. This change in perspective is crucial in fostering collaboration and inspiring your team to achieve common goals.
2. Develop Strong Communication Skills: Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful leadership. As a team leader, you’ll need to convey your expectations clearly, listen actively to your team members’ concerns, and provide constructive feedback. Good leaders are not just skilled speakers but also adept listeners who create an open and transparent communication environment.
3. Lead by Example: Leadership isn’t just about telling others what to do; it’s about showing them how it’s done. Be a role model for your team by demonstrating a strong work ethic, integrity, and a commitment to the organisation’s values. Your actions will inspire and motivate your team to follow suit.
4. Embrace Change and Adaptability: As a team leader, you’ll often find yourself in uncharted territory. Change is a constant in any organisation, and you must be adaptable and flexible. Be open to new ideas and processes and encourage your team to embrace change as an opportunity for growth and improvement.
5. Build Strong Relationships: Building relationships with your team members is crucial for effective leadership. Get to know your team on a personal level, understand their strengths and weaknesses, and be empathetic to their needs. Strong relationships build trust, loyalty, and a sense of belonging within the team.
6. Develop Decision-Making Skills: Leaders are often faced with tough decisions. It’s important to make informed and timely choices that benefit the team and the organisation. Effective decision-making comes from a combination of experience, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of the situation at hand.
7. Delegate Responsibly: While it’s tempting to continue doing tasks you were proficient in as an operative, remember that your primary role as a team leader is to delegate responsibilities. Entrust your team members with tasks that align with their skills and potential. Delegating not only empowers your team but also frees up your time to focus on strategic leadership activities.
8. Provide Mentorship and Support: As a team leader, you have the opportunity to mentor and guide your team members in their professional growth. Be a source of support and encouragement, offering guidance and opportunities for development. Your investment in their success will create a more motivated and skilled team.
9. Learn from Feedback: Receiving feedback is an essential part of personal growth. Be open to constructive criticism from your team, peers, and superiors. Use feedback as a tool for continuous improvement and self-reflection.
10. Set Clear Goals and Expectations: Establish clear, measurable goals and expectations for your team. Ensure that everyone knows their roles and responsibilities within the team, and regularly review progress to keep everyone aligned and motivated.

The transition from an operative to a team leader requires a shift in mindset, improved communication, adaptability, relationship-building, decision-making, and a commitment to mentorship. By embracing these principles and continuously striving for personal and professional development, you can navigate this transition successfully and become an inspiring and effective team leader. Keep practising, keep reading blogs and attending training and you’ll find yourself climbing the managerial ladder in no time.