Career Progression Hub
London, UK
Moving from being one of the team to leading the team is an exciting step in your career—but it can also be one of the trickiest transitions to navigate. You’re no longer “just one of the group”; you’re now responsible for setting direction, making decisions, and sometimes even delivering tough feedback to people who were once your peers.
To lead effectively and maintain positive relationships, you’ll need to balance authority with empathy, redefine boundaries, and establish your credibility in this new role. Here’s how to navigate this challenging transition smoothly.
1. Acknowledge the Shift
One of the first things to do as a new manager is to acknowledge that the dynamic has changed—not just for you but for your former peers as well. Ignoring the shift can lead to confusion or strained relationships.
- What to Say: When addressing your team, acknowledge your new role and express your commitment to supporting them in their work.
- Be Transparent: Let them know there may be an adjustment period and that you’re open to feedback as you step into this new role.
Example: “I’m excited to step into this role, and I value the trust and collaboration we’ve shared as peers. I’m committed to making this a smooth transition for all of us.”
2. Redefine Boundaries
Your relationships with your former peers will naturally evolve as you take on leadership responsibilities. While you can still maintain friendly and respectful interactions, certain boundaries must now be set.
- Avoid Favouritism: Treat all team members equally to avoid perceptions of bias, even if some colleagues were closer to you before.
- Be Mindful of Social Dynamics: While it’s fine to be approachable, participating in every casual conversation or after-work gathering might blur the lines of authority.
3. Establish Your Leadership Style
As a new manager, your peers will look to you for direction and decisions. It’s important to establish a leadership style that aligns with your personality while meeting the team’s needs.
- Be Clear About Expectations: Share your goals and priorities for the team so everyone understands what success looks like under your leadership.
- Lead by Example: Demonstrate the behaviours and work ethic you want to see in your team.
4. Navigate Tough Conversations with Empathy
One of the hardest parts of managing former peers is providing constructive feedback or addressing underperformance. These situations can feel awkward, but they’re also an opportunity to establish yourself as a fair and empathetic leader.
- Focus on the Work, Not the Person: Keep feedback objective and focused on specific outcomes or behaviours.
- Be Supportive: Approach tough conversations as opportunities for growth, offering guidance rather than criticism.
Example: “I know we’ve worked closely in the past, and I appreciate your contributions. Let’s work together to tackle this challenge and find a way forward.”
5. Build Credibility and Trust
To earn respect as a leader, your actions must match your words. Trust and credibility take time to build, but they are essential for long-term success.
- Be Fair: Apply policies and standards consistently across the team.
- Be Transparent: Share insights about your decisions whenever possible to help your team understand your reasoning.
- Be Accountable: Admit mistakes when they happen and demonstrate a commitment to learning from them.
6. Lean on Mentors and Resources
You don’t have to navigate this transition alone. Seek advice from mentors, supervisors, or other managers who have made similar transitions.
- Ask for Guidance: Learn from their experiences to anticipate challenges and adopt best practices.
- Consider Training: Leadership development courses can equip you with the skills and confidence to excel in your new role.
7. Celebrate Team Successes
Recognize and celebrate the contributions of your team. This helps reinforce your role as a leader who values collaboration and shared achievement.
- Small Wins Matter: Acknowledge milestones and express gratitude for your team’s hard work.
- Share Credit: Let your team know they’re integral to the success of the group.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning from peer to manager is a significant milestone in your career. While the journey comes with challenges, it’s also an opportunity to grow as a leader and inspire those around you. By acknowledging the shift, setting boundaries, leading with empathy, and building trust, you can navigate this transition successfully and foster a positive, productive team environment.
Remember: Leadership isn’t about asserting authority; it’s about inspiring others to achieve their best.
