The goal of being a manager is to earn respect from your employees. If your employees donât respect you, it can eventually grow into an inhospitable work environment. Here are some helpful tips on how women can become stronger managers in the workplace.
Use Firm Word Choices
The media often represents women in the workplace as people who over-apologize and are afraid to stand up for themselves. As a manager, work hard to eliminate phrases like âsorry,â âI hope thatâs OK,â and âIâm not sure if youâre free or can do thisâ in conversations and emails.
When youâre short, firm, and concise with your word choices, employees will notice. They will understand that youâre ready to get work done. Set an example for employees, and they will follow in your footsteps and know what you expect of them.
Build Trust Within Your Team
Building trust within your team comes from building relationships first. You want to know and understand your employees, and not on a superficial level. Be available to have conversations about topics other than work. As you get to know your employees, they will get to know you in return. This relationship will allow them to develop respect for you as a person, and then you will earn their respect as a manager.
Take Time To Compose Your Thoughts
Being a manager can be stressful. In the moments of work when you feel stressed and need to have a conversation with an employee, take the time to fully think about what youâd like to say and the goal of the conversation. Being intentional with your words is important. You want your message to be clear to your employee if you want to get your point across.
Accepting a managerial role as a woman can be a daunting challenge, but remember that your boss hired you for a reason. They believe in your capabilities. There will be difficult moments, but you must stand up for yourself and for your responsibilities as a manager. Implement these tips on becoming a strong manager in the workplace, and never forget that you are deserving of your new managerial role.