Advice

"What are Ways to Win Over Tough Co-Workers?" (Part 2 of 2)

Response By: Gabriel Nijmeh, ACQYR.com

This article is continued from Part 1 of "What are Ways to Win Over Tough Co-Workers?"

An ACQYR reader from Springfield, IL submitted a really important question about a recent job promotion. The original advice submission is below (with minor edits to protect his/her identity). Part 1 is a response by Ronnie Nijmeh and Part 2 offers a second opinion with a response by Gabriel Nijmeh.

"I was recently promoted to become director and started this job yesterday. I was a supervisory manager over 13 employees and my focus was there. Now I must focus on every Supervisor, manager, and team and build these relationships more than I have in the past as their peer. I am the youngest amongst those selected and the one with less years under my belt. I have been with the organization for 15 years but still feel the resentment from some but my climb was quick. Most of those whom I will be over have been in higher ranks for years. My question is: What are some ways to win over some of the tougher co-workers, to first accept me in this role and second to take me seriously and respect my input into their programs. I already know my boss wants me to make some changes in some of our program areas, which I am ready for the challenge, but need some tips." 

For the first couple of days, sit down and get to know your staff. Find out what they do, what their goals are, what they like to do in their free time. Get to know your employees. You need to show them that you are approachable and willing to listen to them. It also helps minimize the "us vs. them" mentality that sets in between employee and manager relationships.

Provide direction

Clearly define your team's goals and how to best support those goals. While you don't want to create an over-regimented environment that can stifle creativity, it's crucial to provide a clear understanding of job roles and how performance is evaluated. Set goals rather than give orders.

Ask rather than tell

If there are problems or issues that need to be overcome, make your employees part of the solution. Solicit their input, ideas, suggestions and implement the ones you feel will be the most beneficial and successful. Why alienate good employees by telling them what to do? Instead, make them feel like they have a direct impact on their work environment.

Encourage your team to focus on results rather than procedure

Ask them to keep you informed of their progress, but avoid requiring intensive reporting, tracking and documentation. This gives them the impression that you don't trust them. People will work harder and contribute more energetically if they feel their opinions are respected and they are trusted to make their own decisions. But of course, this depends on your boss and your company policies.

Encourage open communication

To delegate effectively, you must be able to express yourself clearly and persuasively. Equally important is your ability to establish an open, two-way flow of information. The sharing of ideas and suggestions helps spark passionate creativity.

Consult with your employees

Get them involved and make them feel empowered. They have years of experience and wisdom, which is only going to benefit the success of the team and the organization and learn how to deal with problem or resentful employees. If necessary, take them aside privately and discuss the situation. They need to understand the roles and responsibilities required to get the job done with the least amount of conflict and workplace tension.

Avoid re-inventing the wheel

You don't need to make your mark by shaking things up. Some things probably work just fine already. Also, don't think or act like you know everything, nothing breeds resentment more than arrogance. You may be smart, but there's always someone smarter.

You do have a right to be human

Just because you are now management, does not mean that you should throw emotion out the window. Be yourself! Take the time to listen, laugh, or share a story. Little things like this can inspire and motivate your employees.

Be honest with your people

You expect the same from them. Even if it's bad news, honesty helps lessen the blow and maintains hard earned trust. Defend your people! They will reward you with their loyalty.

Be firm

Consult and listen to your employees, but ultimately, the responsibility of strong and decisive decision-making is yours. Don't waver or show doubt. Your employees can easily sense a lack of confidence and doubt in your abilities, thus reducing the respect and authority you have worked hard on developing.

Best of Luck!

Published: June 14, 2004

ACQYR - Strategies Compatible With Your Life. Have a question? Have a problem? Need advice? ACQYR Advice! Visit: http://www.acqyr.com/advice/.

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