Millennials account for 36 percent of the U.S. workforce, and currently hold numerous leadership positions. Research from DDI and The Conference Board relates positive attributions young leaders offer to their work environments. According to the DDI study, the pace at which an organization grows is highly related to the number of Millennials in leadership positions. As young professionals continue to emerge in leadership roles it’s important to implement effective management skills.
TIPS FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONS ON EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT SKILLS:
1. Seek counsel: Part of gaining expertise is learning from people who share similar proficiencies and from individuals who “paved the way”. There is much to gain from coworkers and experts who experienced like trials.
2. Ask when in doubt: It’s perfectly appropriate to seek assistance when faced with a difficult situation or important decision. Effective leaders understand the importance of sound advice from experienced professionals.
3. It’s okay to make mistakes: Give room for errors as you sharpen your management skills. Attention should be given in developing strategies for better outcomes, yet be flexible when mistakes happen. Focusing on problem-solving skills rather than dwelling on what went wrong is part of managing your team effectively.
4. Embrace teamwork: Colleagues and business partners are important team members. Promoting success in others will bring more work satisfaction and foster a workplace culture of connectivity and unity.
5. Promote diversity: Today’s workforce is comprised of employees from around the world with various cultures, ethnicities, and beliefs. Embracing a multicultural workplace with equal gender opportunity and free of discrimination is essential for a successful business.
6. Step out of your comfort zone: We each have strengths and areas needing more attention for professional growth. Conduct a self-evaluation to assess areas requiring focus and intervention. Then, take measures to improve your professional skills.
7. Delegate tasks: It can be intimidating to delegate tasks to colleagues with company seniority. You were chosen for a management position based on your skills and qualities, and age is irrelevant. The idea is to keep respectful when delegating assignments to other coworkers. Delegating should focus on teamwork, rather than taking advantage of a management position.
8. Maintain work-life balance: Career goals and visions of success can introduce balance between work and personal life. Technological advances and social media contribute to continuity of job-related tasks outside of working hours. Disengaging from job responsibilities provides time to recharge, bringing fresh ideas when ready to return to work.
