5 Key Lessons for New Team Members from People Leaders
Working on a people team can be an exciting and surprising journey, filled with fresh challenges and opportunities to make a real difference in people’s lives and the company’s success. However, for those who are new to the team, it can feel overwhelming, especially if they’re fresh out of college or coming from a different industry.
People leaders play a crucial role in guiding and coaching new team members. Without strong leadership, new team members might experience undue stress. Given the high rates of burnout among people teams today, leaders must ensure they support their teams effectively.
Here are five essential lessons people leaders should share with new team members to help them build successful careers, be productive team members, and become valuable assets to the organization.
1. Balance Between Company and Employee Needs
Working on a people team means supporting both the company and its employees. While the company is a priority, the main role of a people team is to support employees by engaging them, educating them about benefits, answering payroll questions, and helping them navigate work and home challenges.
Leaders can help new team members understand this balance by sharing personal stories and showing empathy.
2. Listening Is More Important Than Talking
Effective communication is key in people management. While sharing insights is important, listening is often more powerful.
Active listening means truly understanding colleagues’ perspectives, concerns, and aspirations. This helps new team members tailor their support and solutions effectively. Encourage them to practice empathy, ask open-ended questions, and stay curious about others’ experiences.
3. Build Relationships Beyond Your Team
New team members should learn about the organization’s approach to people management, work culture, and key individuals in other departments.
Leaders should create opportunities for new team members to meet and build relationships with colleagues across the organization, as this provides valuable insights and perspectives.
4. Understand the Business and Industry
Although people team roles are not always industry-specific, knowing the business and industry can make a team member more effective.
Understanding industry benefits, challenges, and competitive threats helps people team members focus their efforts, spot opportunities, and address issues more efficiently.
5. Be Resourceful
Being resourceful is a valuable trait. Leaders can encourage new team members to seek solutions and answers independently, promoting a mindset of resourcefulness.
This lesson benefits all professionals, not just those on people teams. Encouraging a resourceful attitude helps team members use problem-solving strategies and communication skills effectively.
Conclusion
Starting a career on a people team is an exciting adventure with many growth opportunities. By teaching these essential lessons, people leaders set new team members up for success within the organization and in their broader professional lives.
With a foundation built on empathy, active listening, and resourcefulness, the future holds endless possibilities for positive change and innovation.
