It’s not unusual to develop friendships at work. It’s also not unusual for one person from a team to be given a promotion. What happens when these two things clash and you find yourself managing your friends? What happens when you’re promoted over your peers and how will this affect your relationships and your job? Here are some things to consider.
Exit the Gossip Mill
The number one thing you need to do when you’ve been promoted over your peers in the office is to immediately put a stop to any participation you had in the office gossip mill. You can no longer stand around the water cooler and discuss other people in an inappropriate way. You need to have the trust of everyone in your department and you can’t do that if you’re still engaging in this behavior.
Step Away from Social Engagements
You also need to stop attending social engagements with other people in your department. Again, this can be seen as playing favorites by anyone who is not a part of that social group. You need to establish yourself as a manager and leader. However, you can create other types of activities that promote team building based on the policies of your company.
Set the Tone and Expectations
You can’t expect the people you worked with before to automatically give you complete authority and respect. You have to earn it. And to earn it, you are the one who can set the tone and the expectations in the office. Talk to your team about your new role, how it will affect their experience, and your expectations from them on the job.
Focus on the Change
Now is the time to focus on you, what you have to offer, and how you can contribute to the success of your department and company as a whole. Don’t micromanage your team, find a way to lead that will inspire and engage them. Focus on the change and make it smooth and exciting for everyone who is participating.
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