Transitions at Work

Here are ten tips for making the transition from a staff job to line management.

1. Approach your new operational assignment with enthusiasm. See it as an opportunity to learn more about the organization, its customers, and way of doing business. Recognize that line managers determine the success, or failure, of any organization. This may prove to be a significant personal career development opportunity, as well.
2. Recognize that you are entering a new environment with different rules and standards. Line managers are often more concerned with immediate results than with process; this is a different philosophy than that held by many in staff positions. The ability to make decisions quickly without hesitation is often valued over a more measured approach. You must be prepared for this different emphasis.
3. Look to build trust with those you supervise. They will be looking to see where your loyalties lie, and you must demonstrate that you have left your prior staff role, and mind-set behind. Learn your new function and its component duties as quickly and throughly as possible.
4. Be prepared for possible hostility from your new subordinates. They may see you as a “spy from headquarters” or they may question your sincerity.
5. Exercise caution in criticizing current operating procedures or making dramatic changes in operations. Understand the “hows” and “whys” first, before altering the way things are done.
6. Don’t hesitate in asking for advice from other line managers. If possible, interview your predecessor and learn as much as you can about how he or she managed. Look for possible mentors from more experienced management in your functional area.
7. Look to make allies of the departments or units that serve or support your function. You can learn a great deal about the organization and its operations from those handling support—knowledge that can prove valuable in meeting operational challenges.
8. Build relationships with your line management peers. They can be of great assistance on an informal basis, and should be able to help you in adjusting to the new environment and its unwritten rules.
9. Make judicious and limited use of your staff/HQ connections. You may encounter resentment from your peers if they perceive that you are receiving favors or preferential treatment because of your prior staff role.
10. Communicate openly and consistently with your immediate subordinates, peers and your supervisor.

Moving from staff to line can be an exciting and broadening experience. No longer focused on offering advice, you will have a chance to play a more directive operational part.

For information on MindEdge’s online self-paced “Managing in the Modern Organization” course, please click here.

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