Build credibility by demonstrating expertise and clear decision-making. Listen to their concerns and acknowledge their experience while setting clear expectations. Foster collaboration by involving them in key discussions and valuing their input. Maintain confidence in your leadership while addressing resistance with constructive conversations.

In my years of experience working with high achieving individuals, they don’t take authority easily since they always come prepared for meetings or engagements. If you walk into a meeting without direction and action plan it is easy for the individual to side track solutions that are not solid. If you want them to take your authority then be the one with solid action plan. It assures the team that you know what matters to organization and you will be the perfect navigator for the team. And yes solid plans also get counters from high achieving players so be ready to listen and take the best suggestions to move forward. This ensures you keep your team engaged and create confidence while maintaining your authority

Setting boundaries, being mindful of tone and body language, and avoiding anger and defensiveness are all paths to becoming more assertive. Some people seem to effortlessly command respect at work while others struggle to be taken seriously. Why? It often comes down to how assertive and authoritative you are.

Gaining trust is key. Acknowledge their experience and insights—this shows respect and reduces resistance. Clearly communicate your vision and decisions, backing them with logic and how it benefits the team and company. Lead by example; demonstrate dedication, competence, and humility. Foster collaboration by involving them in discussions and seeking their input—people support what they help create. Build rapport through one-on-one conversations to understand concerns. When challenges arise, remain firm yet respectful, ensuring consistency in decisions. Over time, your actions will build credibility, making it easier to assert authority naturally. Consistency and respect are your strongest tools.

Establish credibility by demonstrating expertise and fairness. Build trust through open communication, acknowledging their experience while setting clear expectations. Use data driven insights to support decisions and involve them in problem solving. Address resistance with empathy, reinforcing a shared vision. Lead by example, ensuring accountability while fostering collaboration.