Manager Questions?

 Common mistakes include trying to be a friend to your employees, not setting clear expectations, not holding employees accountable, not giving feedback constantly (both positive and negative), assuming employees know what your expectations are, and not taking action immediately if negative feedback is necessary.

When I was a business manager the single best thing I did was implementing weekly one-on-one half hour sessions with each employee. Ten minutes for the employee to talk about whatever they want, ten minutes for you go talk about anything you want, and 10 minutes to talk about specific business issues moving forward. Have a set time each week for each employee. If you don't do that, after a couple weeks you'll find excuses not to meet. It takes a lot of time, but it opens up communications.

I'd also recommend against implementing significant changes too quickly. 90 days is a standard for a new manager to roll out and implement changes.

The best managers try to help their employees be the best they can be in all areas of life. In the one-on-ones I'd get information about things that were stressful or challenging for the employee, and I could often make accommodations that would make a big difference for them without causing any trouble for the company.

If you find the best employees and treat them like kings and queens, they'll be loyal and your company will prosper.

To reiterate, most employees want to be held to high standards. Make sure you communicate those standards and guide your employees to meet those standards  without compromise.