As you grow and advance in your career, you are likely to become a manager. In a lot of ways, there's not a whole lot of training around this when it happens. Because of that, a lot of new managers lack an identity as a leader.
When you are given the honor and the responsibility of managing others, it is a defining moment for you, your career, and the career path of others.
Think back to the supervisors you've had over the years. Most likely you work harder, are more efficient, and stay with a company longer when you have a good supervisor. Alternatively when you're stuck with someone who micromanages, doesn't give clear direction or is just plain unpleasant you probably accomplish less and leave your company a lot more quickly. Being a boss give you the opportunity to shape the framework for how your company operates. It also affords you the opportunity to shape the future of those who will go out into the world and become leaders themselves. Selfishly, I also want to be a good leader so that my name is out there as someone who is great to work for.
So how do you become a good leader/manager/boss?
Take the Role Seriously
First understand that being a boss is an important role. It's not about just you anymore. You're being trusted to represent the company you work for and to teach other employees what that company stands for. You will be shaping the careers of others and are often in control of their future roles within the organization
Decide what kind of boss you want to be
Figure out what characteristics you have valued in past supervisors and which ones made your skin crawl. And then be realistic about what works for you and the group you're supervising. I hate being micromanaged, but I also understand that sometimes when team members are new they require more oversight. Make a list of things that are your top priority and figure out how to make those your defining qualities as a boss. For me that's communication, excellence in expectations, and providing the confidence in my team to do their jobs.
Be Consistent
Whatever type of manager you become, be consistent. Nothing is worse than a boss who lacks consistency. Figure out who you are as the team leader and consistently be that person. It's ok to evolve, but don't decide you don't want to micromanage and then become the person who looks over everyone's shoulder. The fastest way to frustrate your subordinates is by being unpredictable.
Be Flexible
What works for one employee does not work for all. Some of your team may require more guidance. Others don't need any. Understand their strengths and weaknesses and be flexible as a leader so that you're providing the tools to success for your team. This includes how you assign projects and give feedback. Be aware and be flexible.
Give up the Friendship Role
I'm not a formal person. As a supervisor I'm probably more approachable and laid back than a lot. But I'm also very quick to point out the misses and make sure we are working towards excellence. It's ok to be friendly, but give up the role of friend to those you supervise. There are boundaries as the boss and they are very critical to the success of your career as a manager.
Be Open to Criticism and Growth
Ask for feedback from both your superiors and those you supervise. Is all of it going to be useful? Probably not. But being open to feedback allows you to reflect on the things you aren't able to see everyday and to grow and adjust how you lead the team. If you're not constantly looking to how you can be a better manager, you're in no position to be one to begin with.
Being a boss is all of the emotions. It's exciting, scary, stressful, growth - it's a really cool honor. But there's a very fine line between being a successful boss and being the person who nobody wants to work for. Take the role seriously and do everything you can to be you but in a way that promotes success for yourself, your team, and your company.