Why does your peer suddenly become a jerk after being promoted as your Boss?

Your colleague just got a promotion. Now, instead of being your peer, she’s your boss. Can you accept it? Or is it difficult for you to digest this change?

Does your relationship need to change? Should you act differently, or expect her to treat you differently? In other words, how do you manage up to someone who’s just jumped a level above you and who might’ve been a friend?

Actually, it is difficult for you to accept your peer as your boss. She was a good friend, you spent a good time with her, she knows all your secrets and she might have given fake excuses to skip the work in office time along with you.

You both were partners in crime. Suddenly, everything changed when she became your boss. Now, she is "The Boss."

You should understand that it is difficult for her also, to handle this situation, just like it is difficult for you.

Accept that things will change!

Don’t think that you and your peer-turned-boss are still going to go out for beers on weekends or grab a casual lunch together. You can still have a warm, respectful relationship, however, things will change between you and your boss who was your peer.

You might have an advantage, but don’t expect it!

There’s a serious advantage to having already worked with your new boss, however, you should not expect it always. You should understand that she has a new role now. She has to fulfill her duty and perform well towards the organization, therefore, you have to be understanding.

We are humans!

She will take some good steps and some missteps but eventually, it will smooth out if she is to be successful in her new role. Don't be disturbed by the changes. She is not a jerk, it is the new role that has its own attachments. Give her some time, everything will settle down with time.

Appreciate!

She has become your boss because she deserves to be. She must have performed better than you or may have better potential, therefore appreciate the efforts and be inspired.