Been promoted? Here's how you can manage your former peers

We take a look at how you can step into your manager role without burning bridges with your former colleagues

At some point in your career, you will have complained about your boss or manager to a colleague.  

So if and when the time comes that you are promoted and you find yourself sitting above people you used to work alongside, there are steps you need to take to ensure you maintain a good relationship with them, but that you are respected in your new position. 

Figuring all of this out can be really tricky however, which is why we’ve rounded up some top tips to set you on your way. 

Set your boundaries 

This transition might feel a little cold at first, but it’s important to set boundaries between yourself and your staff. Loren Margolis from Training and Leadership Success suggests avoiding gossip and water cooler chats, and not staying out all night at Friday night drinks. Remain friendly, but not their friend. 

Bring your peers along for the ride 

Any good leader will tell you that it takes a whole team of great people to create change. So while you might now be in a more senior position than your peers, it’s important to bring them along with you and let them help you lead because it’ll make your life and theirs a whole lot easier.  

Communicate openly 

There are always going to be issues that arise in a transition phase. Communicate openly with your employees about what they could be doing better, and take on board feedback about what you could be doing better. Learning from each other during this time (as well as into the future) will mean that you grow and strengthen as a team together.