3 Fears New Managers Need to Overcome

When joining a new organization, even experienced managers can encounter an overwhelming number of fears.

Surrounded by new people, new procedures, new technology and a new environment, feeling out-of-sorts is to be expected. Sometimes, it’s hard to remember that you do, in fact, know what you’re doing. You may get lost when you wander the halls, but you’re still a capable and competent manager.

Fear is a natural response to a new situation. However, you can’t let that fear drive your behaviors or interactions—especially as a manager. If you do, you run the risk of developing an unhelpful reputation that can stick around for years to come.

If you’re a manager entering a new organization, here are three common fears you can expect and what to do to successfully cope.

Fear of Looking Uninformed

Ego can be a powerful force, and some managers hate to acknowledge any kind of ignorance.

When you join a new organization, however, it naturally takes time to get fully up-to-speed. You don’t know what you don’t know yet, and that’s perfectly acceptable. Rely on your team to help fill in the gaps. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the appropriate people. They’ll appreciate your candor and humility.

Also read: Behavioral Fitness for Managers

Fear of Not Being Liked

The drive for social acceptance is a natural part of the human condition. We want to feel a sense of belonging within our community. As a manager, you already know that it’s more important to be respected than it is to be liked, and yet, when you’re new to the group, social instinct can be overpowering. You may seek the comfort of friendship and personal connection, which can be hard to come by at first.

Remember that your actions now set the precedent for the future. Be cautious of creating an overly-friendly atmosphere that can backfire down the road. Your team wants a leader they can trust and look up to. It’s okay if they don’t warm to you right away. Don’t go overboard trying to be the cool new manager that everyone loves.

Also read: Managers: Expect More from Your Team

Fear of Rocking the Boat

As the new kid on the block, it can be tempting to simply go with the flow for a while. Certainly, it makes sense to observe and learn the ropes before jumping into a controversy, but at the same time, remember that you were hired for your expertise. You don’t have to sit back and watch when you have helpful ideas or important insights.

The great thing about hiring a manager externally is that the organization gets a fresh perspective. People who have been there for a while often can’t see what you can. Consequently, they may resist your input at first, but it’s still valuable to share. The key is to do so professionally and with the knowledge that, as a new employee, you may not have all the pieces of the puzzle. Be open to the feedback of others.

Likewise, offer your perspective when it’s warranted and valuable; don’t do it for the sole purpose of being vocal or making a name for yourself. (That will create the wrong kind of name.)

As a manager entering a new organization, you have an opportunity to create a fresh, positive and powerful dynamic within your team and the company. You may feel anxious when you consider all that lies ahead, but don’t let these fears detract you from your goals.