When I moved from individual contributor designer to leading and managing a design team, I quickly realized there was much more to learn than I had expected. Here are 10 lessons I’ve learned along the way.
1. Team’s success
Your team’s success is directly linked to your own. As a leader, support your team members in every way you can, and give them room to grow.
2. Thoughtful communication
Be mindful of your words and emotions. Your team members react to and absorb the energy you display, so stay positive and composed.
3. Keeping promises
Never promise something you can’t deliver. Trust is the foundation of a successful team, and broken promises erode it. Be transparent about what you can deliver, and work together to find realistic solutions.
4. Celebrate and correct
Celebrate team members’ successes openly and give constructive feedback privately. Public recognition boosts confidence and morale. Feedback on what needs to improve belongs in private, so nobody is embarrassed in front of others.
5. Building trust
Learn to keep secrets. Team members may share personal matters during one-on-one meetings, and as a manager you have to respect their privacy and keep it confidential. When you’re trustworthy and discreet, team members feel safe and supported.
6. Lead by example
Practice what you preach. If you expect your team members to follow certain guidelines or standards, follow them yourself. When your words and actions match, you build credibility, and your team follows your lead.
7. Protecting the team
Act as a buffer for your team. Absorb the pressure that comes with leadership and shield them from unnecessary stress, so they can focus on their work.
8. Balancing friendliness and professionalism
Build good rapport with your team members while staying professional. Keep the atmosphere comfortable, and still make sure your team understands what’s expected of their work.
9. Connecting on a personal level
Learn about your team members’ lives, interests, and what makes them happy. Showing genuine interest in their hobbies and aspirations builds trust, loyalty, and camaraderie.
10. Regular check-ins
Finally, regularly check in on your team members. Sometimes the happy face they show at work hides real struggles. Taking the time to check in shows that you care.
