Do you see yourself rising up the ‘cannabis’ ladder, earning a new position and title that deems respect? You’ll get to manage a team, get offered a raise, and maybe even get a new office all to yourself! But do you know what it actually takes to maintain a management role? Not only maintain the role but also being a quality leader? To make sure you’re completely prepared, ask yourself these 5 questions:
1. Can you be flexible?
If you’re the type of person who can’t do anything if it’s not on your to-do list, don’t become a manager. When managing a team of multiple humans, things aren’t always going to go as planned. While it’s productive to have a to-do list, be aware your day will not always go as planned. Being able to go with the flow and accept change will make your boss role so much easier.
2. Are you willing to take the heat?
Everything falls on you when all goes wrong. If an employee makes a mistake, or if a group project fails, it’s on you. Are you willing to be accountable for your performance—including the bad? Whether it’s because you didn’t provide sufficient training or set goal expectations in a clear manner, you have to be very aware of your management style and look for ways to constantly improve.
3. Can you set a good example?
You’re about to take on more pressure than you thought you would encounter. All eyes are on you. Your employees will notice when you arrive early, late, leave early, gossip, etc., and they will think it’s OK for them to do it too. You set the standard, make it a good one.
4. Are you able to be an effective motivator and coach?
Keyword: effective. It’s your job to make sure your employees are fulfilled in their jobs, motivated to achieve their goals, and enthusiastic about their work. If resources are tight, you may have to think creatively. So with bonuses and raises aside—how can you motivate your team and coach them appropriately in a fun way?
5. Can you make tough calls?
All the decision-making is going to be your responsibility. Your team member will come to you for advice and help in making decisions and handling certain situations. To make tough calls like responding to a problem client, or whether or not to let go of an employee, takes strategic, thorough thinking to decide what is best for the company.
No matter what, having a leadership role will come with bumps in the road and a lot of learning. As long as you go in with a positive attitude and an idea of what to expect, then you’ll be on the right track!
