You Got Promoted to Manager, What Now?

Meet Sarah.

Sarah was recently promoted to a sales management role.

She was successful in her previous role as a sales rep.

She helped clients, met targets, got along with her peers, and was a respected employee.

Sarah and her manager assumed the obvious career advancement for her was to be a sales manager. 

Being good at sales, meeting targets and getting along with people doesn’t guarantee a successful management career. There are a number of skills that can be transferred to the role of manager and others that need to be learnt and continuously developed.

The Importance of Leadership Development in Sarah’s New Role

• A good manager removes obstacles so that their team members can achieve their goals.

• A good manager will ensure the best work processes are in place so that their team can achieve their own and business goals.

• A good manager will make inquiries, connect team members with the relevant people, and use reporting figures to motivate. They will make things happen so that individual team members, the team as a whole and business goals are achieved.

The same person, at different times, will be required to lead through the power of influence. This involves forming a connection with team members, being authentic, inspiring others and create an enabling culture. To do this (and more), it’s important to understand your own strengths and vulnerabilities and have a framework in place for your own professional development.

A team needs an individual who is a manager and leader. Therefore, for someone who is new in an executive role, it’s imperative they understand the difference between the two and what is expected of them.

For Sarah to be equally successful in her new role, she will need to define what success looks like. Additionally, she should have support from her superior and have access to the necessary tools and resources to accomplish her tasks effectively. Relying on past successes, luck, and a winning smile will only get you so far. 

The Role of Leadership Development Programs

Leadership development programs equip individuals with crucial skills and knowledge for successful management. These programs go beyond the basic requirements, focusing on developing leadership competencies.

By engaging in a leadership development program, Sarah will have the opportunity to enhance her understanding of various leadership styles, learn effective communication techniques, gain insights into strategic thinking, and develop strong decision-making and problem-solving skills. These programs use practical exercises, case studies, and real-world scenarios for participants like Sarah to apply their learning.

Additionally, leadership development programs offer networking opportunities, enabling Sarah to connect with other aspiring and experienced leaders across different industries. Building a professional network offers valuable perspectives, mentorship, and access to diverse experiences and expertise.

Participating in a leadership development program can also boost Sarah’s confidence and self-awareness as a leader. Through self-reflection exercises, feedback sessions, and coaching, she can gain a deeper understanding of her strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. This self-awareness will allow Sarah to leverage her strengths effectively and work on areas that need improvement, ultimately enhancing her leadership capabilities.

Key Skills for Effective Leadership

Effective leadership requires a diverse set of skills that go beyond technical expertise. Developing these key skills is essential for Sarah’s success in her new management position.

Let’s explore some of the crucial skills she should focus on honing:

1. Communication: Effective communication lies at the heart of successful leadership. Sarah needs to master both verbal and non-verbal communication skills to articulate her vision, provide clear instructions, actively listen to her team members, and foster a culture of open dialogue. Strong communication skills will enable her to build trust, resolve conflicts, and inspire her team to achieve their goals.
2. Problem-Solving: Sarah will encounter various challenges and obstacles as a sales manager. Developing strong problem-solving skills will allow her to analyse complex situations, identify root causes, and develop innovative solutions. By encouraging a problem-solving mindset within her team, she can foster a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability.
3. Decision-Making: Effective leaders possess the ability to make informed decisions promptly. Sarah should develop her decision-making skills by gathering relevant information, considering different perspectives, weighing potential risks, and evaluating the impact on both individuals and the organisation as a whole. Strengthening her decision-making abilities will enable her to make sound judgements that drive the team and business forwards.
4. Strategic Thinking: A successful sales manager must possess strategic thinking skills to align team objectives with broader organisational goals. Sarah should develop a long-term vision, anticipate market trends, and identify opportunities for growth. By thinking strategically, she can guide her team in making proactive decisions and adapt to changing business landscapes.

By actively focusing on developing these key leadership skills, Sarah will enhance her ability to lead and inspire her team, drive performance, and contribute to the overall success of the organisation. It is through the continuous refinement of these skills that she will become an effective and influential leader in a sales management role.

Conclusion

It is crucial for a team to have an individual who can fulfill the roles of both a manager and a leader. This applies directly to Sarah, especially considering that she and her manager assumed her career advancement would naturally lead to a sales management role. To ensure Sarah’s success in this new position, it is essential for her to embrace the responsibilities of both managing and leading her team.

If you’re looking to enhance your leadership skills or explore ways to develop as a manager, we invite you to book a FREE consultation with Learning Elements. Our team of experts can provide valuable insights and guidance tailored to your specific needs. Alternatively, you can enrol in our “The Comfortable Series,” an immersive program designed to empower you with the skills and knowledge required to excel as a manager and leader.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to take your career to new heights. Contact us now!