A common and awkward transition.
WHAT CHANGES
The relationship, whether or not anyone acknowledges it.
WHAT MAKES IT DIFFICULT
Existing friendships Resentment from those who wanted the role Your own reluctance to exercise authority
WHAT TO DO EARLY
Acknowledge the change, directly.
WHAT TO SAY
That the relationship is different, that you value it, and how you intend to work.
WHY SAYING IT HELPS
The unspoken awkwardness is worse than the conversation.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
How decisions will be made What you expect What they can expect from you
WHAT TO AVOID
Pretending nothing changed Overcorrecting into formality Continuing to socialise exactly as before with some and not others
WHY THAT LAST POINT
It creates the appearance of favouritism, which is as damaging as the reality.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT SOMEONE WHO WANTED THE ROLE
Speak to them directly.
WHAT TO SAY
That you know, that you value them, and what you would like from them.
WHAT NOT TO DO
Avoid the subject.
WHAT TO BE PARTICULARLY CAREFUL WITH
Sharing information you now have and they do not Complaining about your own management to them
WHY
It puts them in an impossible position.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A period of adjustment, for everyone.
WHAT RESOLVES IT
Consistent, fair behaviour over time.
