management trouble

[dawg_kane]

ive recently been promoted to manager managing the team of engineers i was once part of.

Although i think i am taking to the job very well and i deffo suits me i sometimes feel like maybe im a bit soft on people and therefor inferior as a manager.

dont get me wrong i dont let people walk all over me, these guys used to be the guys i went one to one on breakdowns with and now im the one telling them where to go and what to do and of course telling them off if things go wrong...i dont like doing it but i love the job...its not my style to be the horrible boss some people have, i enjoy walking the floor and being one of the boys still, it works to a degree and i do gain respect and am very much liked....am i doing the right thing or do u think i should be tougher or change my strategy in managing these people?

[WendyS]

The change from subordinate to manager/supervisor is not necessarily an easy one and taking control doesn't always come naturally. You don't have to be a horrible boss to gain the respect of your staff and get things done. If you're getting the right results without having to be tough, you're doing OK but occasionally when things get difficult you may need to take a stronger attitude. If you feel this is the time when you might struggle why not ask your employer to send you on a suitable leadership course. The CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel Development) run lots of courses, as do other organisations. If you company has an annual performance appraisal process, that would be a good time to bring up the question of your personal devlopment.

[stanleyman]

It is difficult managing people who already know you but it sounds as if you've got it about right. You've got to be firm but fair and people will do more for you if they genuinely respect you. It is a fine balance and nobody likes a horrible boss which can lead to problems for yourself. It doesn't hurt to show a bit of compassion when due, it usually isn't forgotten but look out for those who may take advantage. Don't be afraid to take tough decisions when necessary to keep the business from suffering.

[joko]

take a firm but fair stance, say things like 'i don't want to crack the whip here but you must do as i say etc...'

if they know you hav enot just gone power mad they will realise when you do get tough its because you have to not just because yoiu want to - i feel its very important not to make them feel like you are just being bossy just for the sake of it because theyre will lose all respect for you and your job will become a nightmare