Q: I’ve always enjoyed a close working relationship with my colleagues—but not since I was recently promoted to be their group manager. All of a sudden, it seems my colleagues have turned against me. Two are acting snarky while another appears somewhat disgruntled. I’d appreciate some advice on handling this situation.
–Feeling Undermined in Ballwin
A: Your predicament is not a rare occurrence in the business world. While it would be presumptuous of me to judge your particular situation without knowing all the players, one thing is certain: The power structure within your work group has changed, and this has probably affected the way some on your team now feel about you. You are no longer a peer among your colleagues, you are their manager, and it is up to you to take the reins, and yet ‘extend an olive branch’ to smooth out any ruffled feathers. I’d act as expeditiously as possible to schedule a staff meeting to clearly lay out your ground rules for daily conduct. But, I would state my expectations in a conciliatory tone and not ‘go negative’ on anyone or complain about being mistreated; rather, I’d use the occasion to make a kind of inaugural address, to set the tone for my managerial administration. You might begin by stating matter-of-factly how things now stand—that management has chosen you to lead your group in order to meet the company’s objectives. Next, I’d express to everyone my sincere desire and willingness to help overcome any difficulties or obstacles that may impede their progress in completing assignments, and then mention that I look forward to recognizing and celebrating individual achievements and team success. Finally, I would urge everyone to be understanding and respectful of one another, to work as professionals, and to get along in a spirit of collegiality. If this little speech doesn’t do the trick–and some on your team continue to act uncooperatively or disrespectfully–then I would meet with each of them, one-on-one, in private, to hash things out. Fully engaging with your staff in such ways would certainly require some gumption on your part and could be a bit stressful, but whoever said being the boss (or group manager) would be easy?
[If you have a question for Joan, send it to business@townandstyle.com. Joan Lee Berkman is a marketing and public relations consultant.]