Beat the odds and set your team up for success by steering clear of these common pitfalls.

Statistics reveal that 60% of managers fail within their first 18 months. To beat these odds, it’s essential to understand and avoid the nine most common pitfalls new managers face. Here’s a detailed guide to help you thrive as a leader and build a high-performing team.

1️⃣ Focusing on Motivation Over Momentum

The Mistake: Relying solely on motivation to drive your team.

Why It’s a Problem: Motivation is temporary and often fades during challenges.

The Fix: Build systems and habits that sustain momentum, ensuring consistent progress.

2️⃣ Managing Tasks Instead of Energy

The Mistake: Overloading your team with endless tasks without considering their energy levels.

Why It’s a Problem: Burnout results when energy is spread too thin.

The Fix: Focus on high-impact activities that matter most. Prioritize balance and well-being.

3️⃣ Hiring for Skills Over Character

The Mistake: Choosing candidates based on technical expertise alone.

Why It’s a Problem: Skills can be taught, but core values and character are deeply ingrained.

The Fix: Hire people who align with your team’s culture and values. Train for skills later.

4️⃣ Confusing Feedback with Coaching

The Mistake: Using feedback as the only tool for team development.

Why It’s a Problem: Feedback addresses past mistakes, while coaching prepares for future growth.

The Fix: Balance feedback with coaching. Help your team realize their potential.

5️⃣ Underestimating the Power of Sales

The Mistake: Believing that leadership is not about selling.

Why It’s a Problem: Leadership requires buy-in, influence, and inspiring others.

The Fix: Embrace your role as a salesperson. Sell ideas, goals, and visions to your team.

6️⃣ Confusing Hiring with Recruiting

The Mistake: Filling current vacancies without planning for the future.

Why It’s a Problem: Short-term hiring creates reactive, instead of proactive, teams.

The Fix: Build a recruiting pipeline to attract top talent for long-term success.

7️⃣ Not Leading with Clarity

The Mistake: Giving vague instructions and unclear expectations.

Why It’s a Problem: Ambiguity causes confusion and reduces team confidence.

The Fix: Clearly communicate goals, roles, and responsibilities.

8️⃣ Neglecting to Manage Up

The Mistake: Focusing solely on managing your team without aligning with your manager.

Why It’s a Problem: Your success is tied to your boss’s success.

The Fix: Anticipate and solve problems for your manager to foster a strong relationship.

9️⃣ Solving Problems Too Quickly

The Mistake: Offering immediate solutions to every issue.

Why It’s a Problem: Quick fixes create dependency on you, stifling team growth.

The Fix: Guide your team through problem-solving. Help them build confidence and capability.

Final Thought: Leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about clarity, progress, and fostering a capable team. Avoid these pitfalls, and you’ll set yourself apart as a leader who inspires lasting success.