Being a friend to the newbies!

This post was originally written in April, 2020.

Over my period of 9+ years as a corporate guy, I came across hundreds of newbies with different skill-sets, quality, mindfulness, level of interest, inquisitiveness and varied attitude. As a keen observer of people’s expressions to predict the way they would work, I have been able to identify one common feeling that every individual wants -

The curiosity of creating an identity in the community of unknowns

Identifying the above problem statement is quite easy for a manager! However, finding a one size fits all solution to the above might turn out to be a nightmare!

Numerous questions might haunt managers if they try to seriously delve into finding a solution.

A few examples could be:

• Is this really a problem?

• Is it that difficult?

• Why am I trying to solve this problem?

• Is it worth investing time upon?

• Would this solve by itself over time?

It’s not easy to answer these; and even if solutions are identified, every person might have a different perspective!

I kept my actions very simple! Without changing the constructive thoughts of the newbies,

• I made myself accessible.

• I made myself approachable.

• I started listening to them.

• I gave value to their thoughts.

In short, I tried being a friend in the community of unknowns.

My belief, there is no right or wrong way towards managing people, specially newbies. Being open makes all the difference!