A promotion means a new role, new responsibilities and changing dynamics in your relationships. Here are 3 things all successful leaders do after a promotion in order to make their transition as smooth as possible.
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I used to think promotions were great, until I got promoted myself. Within a year of graduation, I found myself moving up the ranks of the organization I was working for. I was excited initially, which was not surprising. After all, the possibility of taking up new challenges, honing your leadership skills, and taking home more money every month, would appeal to everyone.
What I didn't realize were the subtle shifts happening within my relationships with other people in the organization. The dynamics of our relationship had changed. I no longer had to report to some people, while those who had worked alongside me all this while suddenly found themselves submitting reports for my approval. I had to review all these professional associations and find ways to overcome the awkwardness accompanying the changing nature of the relationship.
Now with a few more years of experience (and promotions) in my kitty, I believe I have learnt the three major steps people should focus on accomplishing, in order to navigate this transitory phase without a hitch.
1) Reach out to your stakeholders
Talk to all of your stakeholders before you formally take on your new role. Having a conversation will help you address any issues, alleviate their concerns, establish new rules and reset boundaries in your relationship. Understanding the challenges awaiting you, problems facing your team, etc. will help you prepare better for the role.
While it might seem painful or awkward to do this, it is an essential step to ensure continuing respect and avoid disappointments in the future. Instead of setting yourself up for failure due to internal politics or miscommunication, redefine your relationship with those you are now expected to work with.
Also Read: 5 Tips on Handling Difficult Conversations Better
2) Communicate with Intention
Now that you are moving up the ranks, you need to communicate intentionally. While this doesn't mean you should be quiet and brooding, it does mean that you should carefully consider whom you are talking to and what it is regarding. A joke you may have shared with a former peer may seem off-color in the pristine-white corporate corridors. At times, your former bosses may need a gentle reminder that they should treat you as a peer and not a subordinate. Every message that you deliver should be crafted intentionally and purposefully.
Also Read: 8 Harmful Phrases a Leader must avoid
3) Show Results
The best thing you can do for your image is to show the results that the organization desires. While you should put effort into your relationships and communication, you shouldn't do so at the cost of your performance. Creating wins in a short period of time will establish you as a force to be reckoned with.
