Hello and welcome to Continuous Improvement, the podcast where we explore ways to enhance our skills and become better managers and leaders. I’m your host, Victor, and today we’ll be diving into the exciting world of self-improvement and effective management techniques.

As many of you may already know, I recently took on the role of manager, responsible for directing a small team. It’s been quite the journey, filled with challenges and opportunities for growth. And in today’s episode, I want to share some insights and strategies that have proven helpful along the way.

One of the first things I realized was the importance of having a growth mindset amidst the occasional bout of impostor syndrome. Acknowledging that improvement is possible and seeking opportunities to enhance our skills is key. We must remember that the strength of our team lies in our collective ability to grow and develop over time.

Let’s talk about one of the common challenges we face as managers - public speaking. It can be a daunting task, especially when addressing a large audience. But rest assured, you’re not alone. Many of us share this fear despite being leaders in our respective fields.

To tackle this hurdle, I sought guidance from a colleague and discovered the power of practicing and effective feedback. Giving feedback can be difficult, but it’s vital for both the team and ourselves to communicate effectively and improve the quality of our work.

One framework that has helped me provide constructive feedback is the Situation, Behavior, and Impact (SBI) model. Instead of pointing fingers or attacking team members personally, we should build trust and create space for collaboration and problem-solving.

Another challenge we face as managers is dealing with individuals who are resistant to change. In such cases, our approach should be grounded in empathy and understanding. Through active listening, asking leading questions, and sharing personal anecdotes, we can create a more positive impact.

Coaching and support are essential in motivating our teams to overcome barriers and reach their true potential. By offering both motivational and developmental feedback, we can identify each team member’s strengths and weaknesses, fostering a synergistic culture.

The GROW framework is a highly effective coaching tool that stands for Goal, Reality, Options, and Action. Setting clear goals, understanding the current reality, exploring available alternatives, and implementing action steps will help us maximize performance and unlock our team’s potential.

Decision-making is another aspect of management that requires careful consideration. We often find ourselves at crossroads, balancing the needs of the company and its people. Utilizing frameworks like the What, Why, Who, When, and How approach can help us navigate these difficult choices.

Unconscious biases and emotional triggers can often cloud our judgment when making decisions. Being aware of these biases and recognizing our emotional states is crucial. Viewing ourselves as team players and considering diverse perspectives can help us mitigate these challenges.

To further enhance our managerial skills, the RACI framework comes into play. By defining who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed, we establish a structure that ensures a balance between quick action and team buy-in.

In summary, being a good manager means being an effective coach who empowers their team while fostering a positive work environment. Embracing a growth mindset and avoiding negative behaviors are key to helping us improve ourselves, our team, and the broader organization.

And that’s a wrap for today’s episode of Continuous Improvement. I hope you found these insights and strategies valuable as you navigate the exciting world of management. Remember, we’re all on a journey of growth, and together, we can create a positive work environment that inspires greatness.

Thank you for tuning in. If you have any questions or topics you’d like me to explore in future episodes, please feel free to reach out. Until next time, keep striving for continuous improvement.