Ask Michael: Navigating New Waters as a Leader

We’ve received so many submissions with questions about stepping into new leadership roles that we’re publishing a special edition of our newsletter, BRAVO. This question, in particular, was received multiple times from people promoted to various levels within their organizations, including first-time supervisors to senior leaders. We’ve created a composite question to address everyone at once. Look for future Q&A as part of the regular BRAVO content.

Do you want to be part of the discussion? We encourage you to post your recommendations, insights or experiences in the comments. Knowing there are others who have experienced and overcame similar situations will help even further.

Have a question for Ask Michael, send a DM or an email to [email protected] and be part of the conversation. Your submission will remain anonymous.

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Dear Ask Michael,

I’ve recently been promoted to a new leadership role, and I find myself intimidated by the things I don’t know. My new peers were previously my superiors, and I don’t want to look incompetent in front of them. I’m eager to catch up quickly and make a good impression, but I’m struggling to balance this with the demands of leading my team. How can I bridge my knowledge gaps, gain confidence, and ensure my team remains engaged during this transition?

Sincerely,

New Leader

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Dear New Leader,

Congratulations on your promotion! Stepping into a new leadership role is both exciting and challenging, and it’s perfectly normal to feel a bit daunted by the unknowns. Remember, you’ve earned this position through your hard work and unique strengths. Here’s how you can bridge those knowledge gaps, build confidence, and keep your team motivated during this transition.

1. Identify Knowledge Gaps:

Start by pinpointing the areas where you feel less confident. Is it industry-specific knowledge, strategic planning, financial acumen, or something else? Once you’ve identified these gaps, you can focus on addressing them systematically.

2. Seek Out Resources:

There are plenty of resources to help you catch up. Consider:

- Books and Articles: Dive into some insightful reads. Alongside classics like “The First 90 Days” by Michael Watkins and “Leaders Eat Last” by Simon Sinek, check out newer releases such as “Leading with Vulnerability” by Jacob Morgan (2024), “The Power of Habit” by Charles Duhigg, and “Inner Mastery, Outer Impact” by Hitendra Wadhwa (2023). These books are available in various formats—hardcover, e-book, audiobook, or even through summary apps like Blinkist and Audible for quick insights.

- Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Harvard Business Review offer courses that can quickly bring you up to speed.

- Mentorship: Don’t underestimate the power of mentorship. Identify a few trusted colleagues who have the expertise you’re seeking and ask if they’d be willing to mentor you. This can often be done confidentially.

3. Engage with Peers:

Your new peers are likely to be supportive of your growth. Approach them with humility and a willingness to learn. Asking for advice not only helps you gain knowledge but also fosters stronger professional relationships. Remember, asking questions doesn’t show weakness; it shows a commitment to excellence.

4. Leverage Your Team:

Your team’s engagement is crucial. Delegate tasks to them, not only to manage your workload but also to empower them. Trusting your team will allow you to focus on your development while ensuring they feel valued and capable. Regular check-ins and open communication will keep them motivated and aligned with your vision.

5. Combat Imposter Syndrome:

Feeling like an imposter is common, especially in new roles. Remind yourself of your achievements and the reasons why you were chosen for this position. Reflect on your past successes and the unique qualities you bring to the table. When self-doubt creeps in, counter it with positive affirmations and a focus on continuous improvement. Remember to focus on facts, not feelings when imposter syndrome kicks in. Keeping a Brag Journal to reflect on all the praise and compliments you’ve received will help remind you of how you are truly perceived and valued.

6. Stay Engaged:

Balancing your growth with team leadership is vital. Make time for your team, listen to their concerns, and celebrate their successes. A leader who is present and engaged fosters a motivated and loyal team.

Remember, a great leader isn’t an expert in everything. They excel by knowing what they know and what they don’t. Leadership is a continuous journey of growth. It’s not about racing to know the most but about deepening your expertise and fostering a learning-oriented environment.

This advice isn’t just for first-time leaders; it’s applicable throughout your career. Even senior leaders and executives face these same questions. Your willingness to learn and grow sets a powerful example for your team. Wishing you all the best in your new role!

Warm regards,

-Michael