In our blog on Monday, we discussed internal promotions. A question we frequently get is “how do I deal with my peers who are now my subordinates?” This is an important question. Organizations are a collection of tribes (operating units within the organization). When the social balance is disrupted, as it is with a promotion, instability follows. What can you as the newly appointed manager do to re-establish stability?
We offer 6 suggestions, which are based on Michael D. Wakins’ advise presented in his new book Your Next Move:
1. Accept that relationships have to change
a. This is a simple reality
2. Focus early on the rites of passage
a. Some of your peers will be pleased, some will be shocked and some will be angry
b. Allow them to go through the grieving cycle – to a point
c. If some cannot stop grieving, it is time for them to find new opportunities
3. Re-enlist your good former employees
a. Identify who is important to keep and be sure to get that message to them
4. Establish your authority deftly
a. Don’t over sell your authority, nor under sell it. A middle of the road approach can work the best
5. Focus on what’s good for the business
a. You were promoted to advance the business. Make the right decisions with this in mind
6. Approach team building with caution
a. How you approach team building starts with knowing the objectives you want to accomplish for the unit and thus the business
Being promoted is exciting and creates a new career challenge. Approach it thoughtfully and confidently.
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Tags: Quick Tips for the newly appointed (internal) manager.
