Hi. I’m The New Sales Manager…..

This one is for all you sales managers. It's about my experience as the new guy in the sales manager hotseat.

When I became the new Sales Manager the eyes of the team were squarely on me.

I knew how careful I needed to be. Within the existing sales team, there were the expected nerves and anxiety.

That 'ugh, new boss' syndrome we have all felt.

Here's what I figured the team thought when I came in to lead.

Who is this guy?

• Will I be micromanaged?

• Is he aware of our challenges?

• What does he know about our business?

• What does he know about our industry?

• Will he roll up his sleeves?

• Is my job secure?

To at least minimize these common concerns, it was critical that at the start I made sure to…

1. Spend 1-1 time with each & every one of them

2. Authentically share what I don’t know and how I intend to learn from them

3. Listen without judgment to their concerns, challenges, frustrations, opinions, and suggestions

4. Maintain confidentiality

5. Set clear expectations

6. Transparently share progress with regular check-in meetings

7. Ask for feedback

8. Provide feedback

9. Connect the dots – show them how they contribute to progress

10. Celebrate the wins

When the team feels they are part of decision-making, and their input contributes to success, there’s a sense of ownership that leads to greater buy-in.

It took time but things clicked.