Comment What Helped Me (Score 4, Insightful) 763
I was a geek 6 years ago than became a manager.
I would say the most important thing to do is understand the difference between being a manager and a leader.
The key difference is a manager will tell you to do something. You will only do the action if it is in your best interest.
A leader will convince you to do something that isn't necessarily in your best interest and you will do it.
I haven't read any management books and I wouldn't recommend any. Just treat your people with respect and remember that they are always watching you .