As a leading Houston staffing agency, Murray Resources knows taking a job as a manager of an existing team is tough. Not only are the employees used to the old manager’s approach, but they might not be open to your way of doing business. If you’re the new boss, here are 5 survival tips to overcome this tricky situation and gain your team’s respect:

Tip #1: Don’t insult their former manager.

You’re walking into a situation where you may not know much about the politics or past loyalties. Even if you disagree with the old boss’s approach or policies and see glaring errors, be diplomatic when discussing them. The last thing you want to do is insult a former, well-loved manager and create a sense of animosity among your new staff members.

Tip #2: Take change slow.

You can’t possibly learn about the team and all the challenges they face in a few days. So don’t take over the reigns and start implementing change immediately. Go slow. Take some time to get to know the situation and why things are done the way they are before making big changes.

Tip #3: Get to know your people.

Take an interest not only in your team members as employees, but as people. Ask about their work, get their view of the department’s strengths and weaknesses, and find out what they need from you. Plan to meet with each employee individually so you can ask questions like:

• What are your career goals for the year? Are you on track to achieve them?
• What are some obstacles to success you’re experiencing?
• What do you think that’s working that we should be doing more of?
• Is there anything I can do that would help you do your job better?

Tip #4: Communicate your approach and expectations.

Talk about your objectives for the team and the way that you like to work – for instance, do you like in person updates, or progress reports via email? Ask what questions they have about your goals and expectations.

Tip #5: Expect some resistance.

You’re the new kid on the block and your employees are probably comfortable in the way things are. So if you start going around, changing processes and procedures, expect some resistance. Don’t take it personally or get defensive. Just clearly explain your reasoning and how the changes will benefit the team as whole.

Need help hiring for your team? Call Murray Resources. As a leading Houston staffing agency, organizations all over the city rely on our expertise to source, hire and retain top talent for permanent, temporary, part-time and contract opportunities.

Ready to get started? Contact us today.