12 common management challenges

Here are some of the most common challenges managers face and how to overcome
them:
1. Decreased performance levels
2. Being understaffed
3. Lack of communication
4. Poor teamwork
5. Pressure to perform
6. Absence of structure
7. Time management
8. Inadequate support
9. Skepticism
10. Difficult employees
11. Transition from coworker to manager
12. Weak workplace culture
1. Decreased performance levels
Employees may experience periods of time where they are not as productive as usual.
A decrease in productivity can sometimes affect other team members and overall goals,
making it important to help employees feel motivated.
Managers who consistently review processes and procedures within the company can
increase efficiency. Perform a workflow analysis to review your current systems and
restructure weak areas. Another way to address this challenge is by asking questions
and offering solutions to their problems. One-on-one meetings provide a great
opportunity for managers to reestablish work hours and expectations regarding work
productivity.
Related: 7 Challenges of Working Remotely and How to Overcome Them
2. Being understaffed
Managers must recognize when it's time to hire another team member to help fulfill
responsibilities within their department. Because the hiring process is time-consuming,
it's helpful to get assistance from other managers and human resources professionals
when pursuing a new candidate.
If needed, ask for help when creating a job description, interviewing applicants and
selecting the right person for the desired role. Consider having applicants complete a
sample work test to help you determine the best fit for your team.
3. Lack of communication
Another challenge managers face when overseeing teams is ensuring effective
communication. Because every team member has a different personality, there is a
chance for miscommunication from time to time.
Increase the frequency of communication to ensure employees know exactly what you
expect of them and when you need them to complete it. Redefine standards that
reinforce your team's goals and purposes. Consider implementing a messaging platform
for the workplace that allows everyone to communicate quickly. Let them know if you
prefer one form of contact over another.
4. Poor teamwork
Sometimes, employees may lose focus on collaboration when they spend a lot of time
completing individual tasks. To re-establish teamwork, managers should revisit the
purpose of a project. Managers who take the time to acknowledge their team's efforts
and clarify the purpose of their work commonly see increased levels of motivation.
Consider dividing your team members into partners so they have a chance to work with
someone for a specific project. Team-building exercises are another great way to help
everyone learn how to work better together. Base the content of your exercises around
the challenges your team faces. For example, if they need to get to know each other
better, focus on relationship building.
5. Pressure to perform
Some managers, especially new managers, to feel like they are under pressure to
achieve greatness from the very start of their role. If you frequently feel stressed about
your leadership position, take time to revisit the reasons why you were hired for the job.
Recognize that leaders learn from experience and mistakes. While planning helps, you
will likely face unexpected situations. The way that you choose to resolve conflicts and
react to challenges reflects your ability to lead.
6. Absence of structure
A common challenge that managers face in the workplace is the absence of structure,
especially when overseeing a new team. Depending on the work environment, some
teams may need to be supervised more closely than others in order to maintain
productivity levels.
Take time to develop an organizational structure that helps employees know what you
expect of them. In addition, show your team respect to encourage loyalty.
7. Time management
Because managers are responsible for overseeing the members of their team and
communicating with other department heads, they typically struggle with balancing their
own tasks. One way to prioritize your own work responsibilities is by scheduling time
throughout the day to do specific work. Let your team know the times you'll be available
to them and the times you plan to focus on your work. Regularly update your calendar,
and share it with team members so they know when they can reach you.
Related: 10 Ways to Improve Your Time-Management Skills
8. Inadequate support
Managers sometimes need approval from the executive team of a company or the
business owner before moving ahead with a project. When the decision-making process
takes longer than expected, it may slow down their team's progress overall. The most
important thing to do in this situation is to be honest with your team members. Let them
know that you are waiting for information from the executive team, and if possible, allow
them to work on other projects. Try to arrange for a one-on-one with the decision-maker
to expedite progress.
9. Skepticism
Teams often question the transparency of management when they feel distanced from
their supervisors, especially if certain employees feel like they are doing more work than
others. When people feel they are not part of the plan, their level of trust becomes
compromised. Clear communication and honest interactions help resolve skepticism in
most instances because it builds trust between an employee and manager. When you
delegate tasks, explain why you assigned it and how it contributes to the overall goal.
10. Difficult employees
Sometimes, managers oversee employees who cause tension in the workplace.
Knowing how to properly address any issues before they become major problems is
one common challenge managers face. To address specific concerns, request feedback
from your team members to learn about any issues they may have with completing work
or communicating with team members.
Implement any feasible suggestions to show you're listening to your team. Take time to
listen to their concerns and find out what you can about the situation. If you're unsure of
what to do next, consider enlisting the support of an HR professional in your company.
Their training supports conflict resolution and other aspects of employee relations.
Related: How to Communicate Effectively with a Difficult Team
11. Transition from coworker to manager
People who get promoted at work often find themselves managing old coworkers. This
situation may feel awkward at first, but with time and the right leadership, it may become
less of an issue. Ensure team members that you're there to support their efforts and
ensure they have everything they need to accomplish their goals. It may help to have a
meeting shortly after the transition where you address the change in roles and allow
your team members to ask any questions.
12. Weak workplace culture
When teams feel like they're not connected with the rest of the workplace, they could
experience a decrease in motivation. Teams that feel they are part of a larger group,
experience more confidence and trust. One way to promote a strong work culture is by
planning lunch outings and rewarding employees who exceed expectations.