What do you do if your authority as a new manager is being challenged?

I personally struggled with this when i first made the switch from a 360 biller into L&D. If you're authority is being questioned you firstly need to assess why, get to the root cause. Is it rooted in genuine concern or are they resistant to change? It will likely be being questioned due to lack of trust/rapport and so; step one, is building that trust up. Which will vary from person to person. Secondly, having open lines of communication and setting expectations along with follow up is imperative to gaining respect as a new manager.

Trust is something that must be earned over time. A person's competence must be proven through his/her performance. So, it needs time and patience.

When faced with challenges to your authority as a new manager, assess the intent behind the resistance. Is it rooted in genuine concerns or resistance to change? Engage in open dialogue to understand perspectives, clarify expectations, and build trust. By addressing underlying motivations, you can navigate conflicts constructively and establish your leadership with transparency and empathy.

Focus on building strong relationships with your team to overcome challenges to your authority as a new manager. Invest time in getting to know each team member individually, understanding their strengths, concerns, and aspirations. Foster open communication, actively listen to their feedback, and demonstrate empathy and respect. By cultivating a supportive and collaborative environment based on trust and mutual respect, you can earn their confidence and loyalty, effectively establishing your authority as a leader.

Clarify expectations early as a new manager to reinforce your authority. Communicate clearly about roles, responsibilities, and goals, ensuring everyone understands their part in achieving success. Set achievable targets and provide guidance on how to meet them. Consistently uphold standards and hold team members accountable while remaining approachable and supportive. By establishing a framework for performance and behavior, you assert your leadership and create a cohesive team focused on shared objectives.

Lead by example as a new manager to strengthen your authority. Demonstrate the values and behaviors you expect from your team, such as professionalism, collaboration, and accountability. Show willingness to roll up your sleeves and tackle challenges alongside them. By embodying the qualities of a strong leader, you inspire confidence and earn respect, solidifying your authority in the eyes of your team.

Exercise flexibility as a new manager to effectively navigate challenges to your authority. Be open to different perspectives and adaptable to changing circumstances. Listen actively to your team's feedback and be willing to adjust your approach when necessary. By demonstrating flexibility and willingness to collaborate, you foster a culture of trust and mutual respect, enhancing your leadership credibility and influence.