Approaching a new team as a person of formal authority but with little knowledge or informal influence

When entering a new team as a manager or leader, it is crucial to approach the situation with humility and an understanding of the established dynamic. Coming in with formal authority but limited knowledge or informal influence requires a delicate balance. One common mistake is to treat the new team as if it were a clean slate, disregarding the existing structure and dynamics. This approach can lead to challenges in gaining the trust and respect of the team members. It is important to recognize the differences between managing a team built from scratch and managing an inherited team. Taking the time to understand the team's values, strengths, and challenges is essential in order to effectively lead and make informed decisions.