Leadership Tip

How to stop managing and start leading

Moving from manager to leader isn’t just managing more people - it’s a whole new game. The shift is less about tasks and more about mindset. If you’ve found the transition bumpier than expected, you’re not alone. Here’s how to reframe it:

  1. Coach, don’t solve. You’re no longer paid to have all the answers. Your real value lies in asking sharper questions and helping others build judgment. Silence, used well, is a leadership superpower.
     
  2. Drive impact through others. Your productivity now comes from enabling conditions for success - mentoring, aligning, creating clarity. Leadership wins often arrive on a time delay.
     
  3. Build systems, not bottlenecks. Resist the urge to track everything. Escalation rules, dashboards and clear updates keep you informed without clogging the pipes.

The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our acclaimed 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please contact us.


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