New manager onboarding: buddy guidelines
What is a manager buddy?
A manager buddy is someone who partners with a new manger during their first few months of employment. The buddy may offer encouragement, knowledge resources and the perspective of how things work at the University as they help the new manager settle into the University of St Andrews. Offering advice and guidance regarding the day-to-day aspects of a new managers role is within the responsibility of the new manager’s unit or school and not the buddy.
Key characteristics of a buddy include:
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Communicator: a buddy should encourage open communication. The buddy should provide relevant information to the new manager and encourage a process of continued, self-directed learning.
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Role model: the buddy should be a model employee.
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Motivated: the buddy should have a positive outlook on their work and use that perspective to help build self-confidence and belonging in the new manager. the buddy should lead by example.
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Guide: the buddy can help guide the new employee in many situations based on their experience and knowledge obtained at the University.
Contents
Why have a buddy?
The purpose of new managers being assigned a buddy is to help welcome managers and build their sense of belonging. It provides new managers with a reliable, motivated, single point of contact for their basic questions regarding how management works at the University of St Andrews.
Other advantages of having a buddy include:
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Build on the knowledge obtained in the people management pathway.
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Enable new managers to become knowledgeable about department practices and organisational culture in a shorter period.
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Ensure that routine queries regarding basic operational issues are dealt with expeditiously.
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Reduce the initial confusion and uncertainty faced by all new managers.
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Increase the new manager’s self-confidence allowing them to focus on adding value to the organisation.
Selection
Organisational and Staff Development Services (OSDS) are responsible for selecting a buddy for the new manager. Selections should be based on the following characteristics:
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They are an existing manager.
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They are given time to be accessible to the new manager.
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They are proud of their contributions as manager to the University of St Andrews.
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They have patience and good communication and interpersonal skills.
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They want to be a buddy.
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They are well regarded and accepted by current employees.
What a buddy is not
A buddy shall not be required to assume any of the following roles:
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Mentor: someone, typically more experienced, who is involved with the all-round development of an individual (personal and professional).
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Manager: someone responsible for the new employee's job performance. If queries arise regarding performance, disciplinary or policy matters, the buddy is free to give his/her opinion and advice on how to approach the situation. However, he/she is not in a position to resolve the matter. The new manager must be directed to their manager for resolution of the relevant issue(s).
Buddy responsibilities
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Contact and meet with the new manager as soon as convenient for both.
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Establish a rapport with the new manager.
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Act as an informational resource on policies and procedures.
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Help socialise the new manager to University of St Andrews norms and culture.
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Answer general/routine questions.
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Make introductions.
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Ensure an open communication between the new manager and the buddy, respecting confidentiality.
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Follow up with the new manager on a weekly basis.
Tips for buddies
Don’t worry about being perceived as the expert. Focus your attention on the new employee.
Be patient: it takes time to develop a relationship.
Don’t try to cover everything right away.
Be positive: new managers will grow into their roles if given proper reinforcement.
Don’t try to force a relationship.
Try to identify the new manager’s personality and communication style and adapt accordingly.
Don’t be judgmental. Simply offer feedback.
Maintain a good attitude and a teaching spirit.