Jej, you secured that leadership role that you truly wanted and now the performance anxiety kicks in? You’re not alone! According to a recent study by Leadership IQ, 46% of newly hired leaders fail within their first 18 months. Marta Fröhlich, appointed as the new Head of Financial Services at a leading management consultancy last year, shares her insights into how she navigated the complexities of her new position, while still making her colleagues feel empowered.
"True leaders cultivate future leaders by creating a trusting environment where team members can blossom and thrive." - Marta Fröhlich
understanding the organization's culture
Starting a new leadership role brings the excitement of new possibilities, but also the challenge of understanding the organization's culture and goals. When Marta assumed her new role, she first focused on diving deep into the company’s culture. "I had to really dive into the company's norms and values, build relationships, and figure out how things worked. It was important to get to know each member of the team because strong connections are crucial for effective leadership and teamwork," she reflects.
By prioritizing relationship-building and ensuring her goals aligned with the company’s mission, Marta created a supportive environment where she could establish trust and encourage teamwork.
getting to know your team
Leading comes with its own share of challenges, and one that gets me thinking is that there's no one-size-fits-all solution to every problem. People are different, and being a good leader means connecting with each person on a personal level. “I love connecting with amazing people and spending time with friends and colleagues outside of work is super important to me; it gives me energy and recharges my batteries. So, I've made it my mission to really get to know my team, build trust, and keep the lines of communication wide open on both sides.” Taking this personalized approach has helped Marta to work through various challenges and has only made her a better leader.
the power of trust
As a leader, Marta understands the significance of trusting team members and delegating responsibilities. “When my former supervisor entrusted me with overseeing operations in two new countries, she simply said, “make it happen”. This trust empowered me to lead with confidence”.
This experience instilled in Marta the profound impact of empowering others and fostering collaboration. She now firmly believes that true leaders cultivate future leaders by creating a trusting environment where team members can blossom and thrive.
positivity and resilience as your guide
Stepping into a new leadership role is an exciting adventure, but as with all new positions, it also comes with an inevitable huge learning curve. There will be times when you won't have all the answers, and that's okay. Embracing a mindset of positivity and resilience, Marta encourages her team to create a space where it's safe to make mistakes and learn from them together. "Fall down, stand up, straighten your crown, and carry on' perfectly captures the spirit I embrace," she says.
Finding joy in problem-solving and maintaining a sense of optimism strengthens the team's bond. Together, they can tackle obstacles head-on, remaining productive and motivated even when faced with setbacks. Importantly, Marta's approach allows her to be a role model, demonstrating that even leaders can make mistakes also for their team. This empowers her team to embrace challenges with a lighter heart, knowing they can learn and grow together.
connecting through authenticity
One thing that sets Marta's leadership approach apart is her emphasis on building genuine connections. "I've always seen myself as a bridge builder, someone who brings the right people together to make things happen," she shares. “This approach embodies what I like to call the "0 ego effect," where I strive to be at my best by taking myself out of the picture and allowing others to shine, fostering an environment where everyone's contributions are valued and celebrated.” This not only enhances collaboration but also fuels a sense of empowerment among team members, ultimately leading to greater innovation and success.
support network matters
Thriving in new leadership roles requires support, and Marta recognizes the importance of a solid network. She advises: “Start building your professional network from day one, nurturing connections early on can be invaluable in the long run.” Her husband, colleagues, mentors, and coaching sessions have been pivotal in her leadership journey. "My support system comprises people in my personal and professional life. They provide unwavering support, and their guidance has made a significant impact."
Marta’s journey shows that thriving in new leadership roles requires adaptability, strong relationships, and empowerment. As she continues to lead with confidence and positivity, her story serves as a reminder that understanding organisational culture, empowering teams, and relying on your support network are essential to thriving in new roles.
about Marta Fröhlich:
Marta Fröhlich is a visionary and compassionate leader. As Director of Financial Services Austria at a leading consultancy company, she drives strategic goals and fosters innovation. With over 20 years in business development and relationship management, Marta champions sustainability and ESG principles. She creates an inclusive environment where her team can explore new ideas and learn from every experience. Her leadership is marked by excellence and a commitment to positive impact.
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