New Manager Hangs Out On Calls

Caroline Mae

2 min read

·

04-01-2025

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The new manager's arrival often brings a wave of change. New initiatives, revised strategies, and, sometimes, a surprising amount of time spent on calls. But what happens when that call time becomes excessive, even bordering on unproductive? Let's explore the potential downsides and, surprisingly, some potential upsides of a manager who seems to "hang out" on calls.

The Potential Downsides: Lost Productivity and Team Morale

The most obvious concern is lost productivity. If the manager is consistently present on calls that don't require their direct involvement, it suggests a misallocation of resources. This can lead to:

• Reduced efficiency: Team members may feel hampered in their ability to work autonomously and efficiently, waiting for the manager's input or approval on matters that could be handled internally.
• Missed deadlines: Projects can be delayed if decision-making processes are stalled by the manager's constant presence on calls.
• Decreased morale: Team members may feel micromanaged or undervalued, leading to frustration and decreased job satisfaction. This can manifest as reduced engagement and even higher turnover.
• Inefficient use of resources: The manager's time is a valuable asset. Spending it on unnecessary calls detracts from more important strategic tasks.

Potential Upsides: Mentorship, Team Building, and Knowledge Sharing

However, it's crucial to avoid jumping to conclusions. There might be justifiable reasons for the manager's extensive call presence. Here are some positive interpretations:

• Mentorship and training: The manager might be intentionally using calls as an opportunity to mentor junior team members, providing real-time guidance and support. This can lead to improved skills and faster professional development.
• Team building: Regular call participation can foster stronger team cohesion and communication. It creates opportunities for collaborative problem-solving and relationship-building.
• Knowledge sharing: By participating in various calls, the manager can gain a broader understanding of the team's activities and challenges, leading to more informed decision-making. This facilitates a more efficient and effective allocation of resources.
• Building relationships with stakeholders: The manager’s presence on calls can also be crucial for strengthening relationships with external stakeholders and clients. This can improve communication and ensure successful project delivery.

The Key Takeaway: Context is Crucial

Ultimately, whether a manager's extensive call participation is a positive or negative depends entirely on the context. It's crucial to consider the nature of the calls, the manager's role in them, and the overall impact on team productivity and morale. Open communication between the manager and team members is vital to address any concerns and ensure that call participation remains a productive activity. If the manager's involvement is consistently hindering progress, a direct and constructive conversation addressing these issues is necessary to find a solution that benefits both the team and the organization.