By Jayme Marteniuk — Staff Writer

Stepping into the role of a first-time manager at an ice cream shop, Old Cut Dairy Bar & Pizza Co., in a tight-knit small town has been a journey filled with valuable insights and unexpected challenges. But little did I know that it was one of the best decisions I had ever made. As I reflect on my experiences, I feel a sense of accomplishment with a newfound understanding of leadership dynamics in this unique setting.

Becoming ‘the boss’: 

The transition from being a team member to a manager was a mix of excitement and nerves. Suddenly, decisions carried weight beyond my tasks. I realized that being a boss is not just about giving orders; it’s about steering the ship with empathy and strategy, ensuring everyone’s efforts align with our shared goals.

Earning respect across generations: 

Overcoming the hurdle of coaching and earning respect from coworkers older than me seemed daunting at first. However, I soon realized that age is just a number. My willingness to listen, understand their experience, and collaborate on solutions bridged the age gap. Respect isn’t demanded; it’s earned through mutual understanding.

Guiding the younger generation: 

Managing a younger generation brought its own set of challenges. Their energy and enthusiasm were infectious, but I needed to strike a balance between being their friend and their manager. I discovered that being approachable while maintaining authority fostered an environment where their potential flourished.

Putting my boss at ease: 

To put my boss at ease, I realized the importance of transparent communication. Regular updates on our progress, challenges, and creative ideas reassured my boss that we were moving in the right direction. As a small business, open dialogue between manager and owner ensured we were on the same page, making decision-making more effective.

Taking initiative: 

One defining moment was when I was faced with a crisis and chose to take initiative. Instead of burdening my superiors, I tackled the problem head-on, involving the team to find innovative solutions. This experience underscored the value of proactive problem-solving and demonstrated that effective leadership isn’t just about delegating tasks but also taking ownership.

In this endeavor, I’ve learned that being a manager is more than a title; it’s a responsibility to guide, empower and uplift the team. My journey has been one of adaptation, where I’ve discovered that leadership doesn’t rely on age but on communication, empathy and a shared vision. The dairy bar and pizza place aren’t just establishments; they’re now a reflection of the collaborative effort we’ve poured into making our mark in the small town.

As I continue on this path, I’m reminded that every challenge is an opportunity, and every setback is a chance to learn. My journey as a first-time manager has only just begun, but the lessons I’ve gained – from earning respect to navigating generational dynamics – will undoubtedly guide me towards becoming not just a manager, but a leader worth following. A quote I’d like to wrap this up with that my boss reminded me of quite often was that: “Business isn’t all about the fun jobs.” If you’re a business student, keep this with you as you take on your future roles and challenging times.