Leadership Success – Why New Leaders Struggle

When you move into a leadership role for the first time, it is a huge step. Often we underestimate the size of the step we are taking when we become a leader.

So why might you be struggling and what can you do instead?

They lack confidence

Stepping into new territory is always going to be a bit of a challenge. After all, we are creating some level of risk. The chances are we might make quite a few mistakes along the way in the initial period. Recognise that this is entirely normal. Remember too that those who appointed you believed in you and, more importantly, your long term potential. Leadership is a marathon, not a sprint.

They stay stuck in the detail

Your ability to get things done is probably one of the things that set you apart from others. The trouble is that, when you move into leadership, you need to master getting results through others. If you stay stuck in the detail, you keep doing rather than focusing on achieving results through others.

They don't get clear on expectations

While our boss might give us some broad ideas of what they expect of us, the reality is that you need to get crystal clear on what is expected of you. A great question I have found to unlock this is to ask your boss what are the three to five things that your success will be measured on.

They don't create a support network

Being a leader is sometimes a lonely existence. Having a support network can make a huge difference. These are trusted peers, mentors, coaches or colleagues who you can use as your sounding board. I know that when I was a leader in big organisations having a support network was one of the most vital things to have.

The Bottom Line: Struggle is part and parcel of success, so expect to struggle but take action to reduce the impact.