Managing to Make a Difference

Chapter 73If You Have Been Newly Promoted, Just Take Charge

So you have been promoted to a new role as a manager. On the one hand, this promotion is the culmination of your professional growth to date. On the other hand, it marks the beginning of an entirely new cycle of growth for you, one in which you will need to be an even more active participant. If your promotion involves taking responsibility for managing people who were previously your peers (within the same team or organization), you will face unique challenges. The suggestions that follow can help you maximize your success.

1. Act with Confidence Give direction in a matter-of-fact way. Make it clear through your conversational tone of voice and your relaxed demeanor that you expect people to follow your direction. Do not act like you have something to prove (you have already proven it). Do not take an apologetic approach either. As our friend and client Jim Beglin says, “When in charge, take charge.” Do not be afraid to rock the boat by changing things. If you are a good manager, you will want to improve things, which requires change. Taking that kind of responsibility seriously is part of investing in your own development as a manager.
2. Hold People Accountable Do not try to maintain your status as “one of the team.” You have been promoted. Your relationship with the members of your team has changed. You can still be friends—we encourage it! (See Chapter 3.) But do not allow your former peers to take unfair advantage ...