Moving up the ranks: How to manage supervision of those who used to supervise you.
- lslonelyleader
- Jul 1
- 3 min read
Receiving a promotion at work is a goal for many high performers but one must recognize that promotions bring more than just higher salaries, they have major challenges when those around you maintain their positions as you work your way to the top.
Moving from intern to manager and then to executive director proved to be quite a challenging endeavor. A former superior who never liked me in the first place liked me even less when I became her boss. She wanted me fired and took her grievances all the way to the board of directors, who eventually took my side, but made me defend myself on every point she made. Others who were interviewed for the positions and didn’t succeed also held hard feelings for a while. Although transitioning from a staff position to a managerial role can be a significant and rewarding career move, one must tread lightly.
Here are ten tips to help you navigate this transition successfully:
1. Embrace a Leadership Mindset
Shift Perspective - Understand that your role is now to guide, support, and lead your team rather than focusing solely on your individual tasks.
Big Picture Thinking - Start thinking about the long-term goals and strategic vision of your department or organization.
2. Develop Strong Communication Skills
Clear and Effective Communication - Practice clear, concise, and transparent communication. Ensure your team understands expectations, goals, and feedback.
Active Listening - Listen to your team’s concerns, suggestions, and feedback. This helps build trust and shows that you value their input.
3. Build Relationships and Trust
Get to Know Your Team - Take the time to understand your team members' strengths, weaknesses, and motivations.
Lead by Example - Demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and a strong work ethic. Your team will look to you as a role model.
4. Set Clear Expectations and Goals
Define Roles and Responsibilities - Clearly outline what is expected from each team member and how their roles contribute to the overall goals.
SMART Goals - Set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals for your team to ensure clarity and focus.
5. Delegate Effectively
Trust Your Team - Delegate tasks based on your team members' strengths and expertise. Avoid micromanaging and allow them the autonomy to complete tasks.
Provide Support - Be available to provide guidance and support when needed but encourage your team to take ownership of their work.
6. Continuously Develop Your Skills
Seek Feedback - Regularly ask for feedback from your team and peers to identify areas for improvement.
Professional Development - Pursue further training, workshops, and courses in leadership and management to enhance your skills.
7. Manage Time and Priorities
Prioritize Tasks - Focus on high-impact activities that align with your team’s and organization’s goals.
Time Management - Use tools and techniques to manage your time effectively, balancing managerial responsibilities with strategic planning.
8. Address Conflicts Promptly
Conflict Resolution - Address conflicts and issues within the team promptly and fairly. Foster an environment where concerns can be raised and resolved constructively.
Maintain Objectivity - Stay impartial and focused on finding solutions rather than assigning blame.
9. Encourage Collaboration and Teamwork
Foster a Collaborative Environment - Promote a culture of teamwork and cooperation. Encourage open communication and collaboration among team members.
Recognize and Reward Team Efforts - Acknowledge both individual and team achievements to boost morale and motivation.
10. Adapt and Be Flexible
Stay Open to Change - Be willing to adapt your management style to different situations and individual team members’ needs.
Continuous Improvement - Regularly assess your management approach and make adjustments as necessary to improve team performance and satisfaction.
Most of all you must develop patience and resilience and understand that the transition will take time and that there will be challenges. Stay patient and resilient as you grow into your new role.
Let’s talk about it!
