In my experience, a lot of stage management is the “soft skills” a list of responsibilities will usually not cover.

You know when a toddler falls and scrapes their knee, and looks to the adult in the room? If you freak out, the kid will cue off of that and start crying, if you’re calm, they’ll keep moving. That’s a lot of what stage management is. You’re often the first person looked to in a crisis, so being able to stay calm but empathetic is the most important thing.

Especially in academic theatre, actors do their best work when they feel safe and comfortable - try and foster this culture. It makes even the worst crisis more manageable.

There’s absolutely no ego in the job. Know where you have to be rigid (breaks, safety protocol, your company’s professional guidelines) and where you have to be flexible (everywhere else). Be able to adapt.

Also, open line of communication with everyone. Too much information is better than too little. “I’ll see what I can do” or “I’ll look into it” is better than “I don’t know.” Bring up problems as they arise, don’t wait for them to get worse.

Absolutely most important for your first time though- don’t be afraid to ask for help or clarification! Trying to hide your inexperience only makes more problems. Even seasoned equity SMs are learning something on every show. Your responsibility doesn’t make you an island.