You have been a member of a cohesive and productive department for the past three years. Your department manager has accepted a job in another organization, and you have been moved into her position. You are not one of most senior members, but you have the most education, have been volunteering for many training programs, and have been an outstanding individual contributor. Over the past three years, you have developed close relationships with several of your department members who are around your age. You often go out to lunch together, have drinks after work, and get together on weekends. There are also a couple of “old-timers” who were very helpful in training you when you first came in. They have much more experience than you, but little education. Although you get along with them, you feel a bit awkward about being promoted to be their boss.
1. What are the challenges you are likely to face as the new leader?
2. What are some actions you should take to help smooth the transition?
3. What are some things you should avoid?