How first-time managers can build leadership mentality

MANAGERS are often spinning several plates all at once. To be successful, people managers must lead by example: setting and exceeding goals for their team, keeping workflows moving efficiently and providing the support needed to keep employees motivated, engaged and productive all while adhering to the company's objectives.

- ERICA LAMBERG

Being a manager is demanding on many levels and if you've never done it before, it can be daunting and overwhelming. Moving into management takes a different kind of thinking; it's almost like having to activate an entirely new part of your brain. Luckily, most experts agree that developing “boss brain” is within anyone's reach, regardless of leadership experience or lack thereof.

Pay attention to feedback

Developing a leadership mentality doesn't necessarily start by trying to muster up more confidence. Rather, it can start by simply listening to your new direct reports and showing that you care about the work and them as individuals. Ask your team specific questions about their well-being and actively identify ways to alleviate some of the challenges they are facing.

According to the 2025-2026 Aflac WorkForces Report, fewer than half (48%) of employees believe their employer cares about them, down from 54% in 2024. “And nearly one in five employees (18%) believes that their company doesn't care about their mental health at all,” says Matthew Owenby, chief strategy officer and head of human resources at Aflac.

Part of developing “boss brain” therefore means also developing your empathy muscle.

Zero in on individual strengths