Maneuvering into a position of leadership, particularly if you’ll be leading people that once called you a peer, can be a daunting task. Relationship dynamics shift, how you work with your team changes, and sometimes even resentment can create further tension. If you’re going from coworker to manager, here is a quick and straightforward guide that will keep the process as stress-free as possible.

Keep Things Clear and Upfront

The moment that you accepted your position and it became public knowledge around the office, your place as a member of “the team” was put into flux. The dynamic has changed, and the first problem that should go on your chopping block is to address the elephant in the room with a team meeting.

Avoid being vague, or dancing around the topic. And don’t try to pull the “nothing has changed” card, because it has. Instead take this opportunity to discuss how to move forward with your coworkers at this point. Give them time to provide you with their expectations, and what they think should be happening. Once they’ve done so, say your piece and talk about the kind of leader you want to be, and your expectations for them. Laying everything on the table reestablishes trust, and helps to let any potential sources of friction come to the surface so that they can be dealt with in a healthy way.

Practice Authority Without Arrogance

Most people don’t mean to be arrogant. But we’ve all worked with that boss. Avoid being that boss by instead practicing what it means to be a great manager. You’re now responsible for being the coach, for setting the pace, and for inspiring your team to thrive. Brush up on your communication skills, make sure you arm your team with the resources they need, and strive to remain a part of the team while also establishing your authority in a healthy and steady pace.

Acknowledge Any Animosity

Though unfortunate, it’s not at all surprising to be met with some resistance. Perhaps you got this promotion instead of one of your past-peers. Maybe they just don’t like you being in a leadership role over them. Either way, this should be addressed the moment you notice any frustration or hostility. Do not invite them to a meeting in your office or any other “place of power” where you’re clearly the boss. Encourage conversation in a neutral area, and calmly discuss the situation so that you can both process your rise to management and find a way to move past any stress.

Create New Business Relationships

The path of professional growth is hard, and it’s not one you want to walk alone. An impartial third party that you can trust and speak freely with is a must. For workplace health, this person should not be one of your previous coworkers. Instead establish a working relationship with someone on your professional level, either at your workplace or among friends or family. An experienced peer that can play adviser goes a very long way in letting you build your ideas with some assistance. And someone that doesn’t mind a little venting is always a bonus.

Going from Coworker to Manager Painlessly

Transitioning from coworker to manager can be difficult and stressful just as much as it can be exciting. Work to cultivate transparency, strive to be a healthy leader, and acknowledge that the transition takes time. With these, you’ll be well on your way to becoming the great leader you’ve always wanted to be!

From Coworker to Manager: A Guide

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