Post-promotion do’s and don’ts
June 26, 2018
By Brian Maynor
Earning a promotion is a huge accomplishment and testament to our hard work and determination, but afterwards we have to prove we’re worth it.
The rules and strategies that applied when we were working towards a promotion will no longer apply, and can actually hurt or hinder our success. Along with the responsibilities of a new position, we also have to assume a new role with our coworkers and change how they see us.
Here are some tips on how to ensure we capitalize on the momentum of a promotion and transition smoothly into our new role:
1. Don’t try too hard. Starting a new role is intimidating, and can lead to self-doubt and anxiety, but it’s crucial that we fight off these feelings and the instinct to try too hard. It’s natural to want to show everyone we’re up to the job, and prove we deserved the chance, but that can easily go too far if we’re not careful. Confidence and poise are far more appreciated and accepted than being overly dogmatic and trying to one-up seasoned peers.
2. Humility is key. Getting a promotion should boost our self-confidence, but we don’t want to come across as ‘too big for our britches.” Instead we should show humility, respect and deference, especially at the beginning when we’re building new relationships. This doesn’t mean we have to be a doormat or mute. It just means we need to balance our desire to help with the need to learn.
3. Make your own introductions. As the newbie, it’s up to us to introduce ourselves and get to know our new colleagues. Whether it’s a large group or not, one of the best ways to do that is to schedule some one-on-one time with everyone, preferably out of the office. Whether it’s lunch or coffee, getting to know someone outside of the office can be a lot more informative and preferential in building a valuable working relationship.
4. Be patient. Opinions don’t change overnight, and it’s important to understand that as we move through the first days of our new job. It’s natural for people to continue old routines and we shouldn’t take it personally. In fact, building a thick skin and setting boundaries is great initial goal anytime we change jobs.
5. Watch and learn. Understanding group dynamics are key no matter what our position, and the only way we can really do that is by stepping back and being observant. This not only identifies various roles and responsibilities, it helps us learn the new rules of the game. Just don’t observe from the sidelines too long.
We earned the promotion for a reason, and that usually comes from hard work, dedication and aggressively pursuing opportunities to stand out, but now that we have it we need to step back and tone down that level of assertiveness. Otherwise we run the risk of getting off turning off our new peers and making the next promotion more difficult.
I’m always excited to hear from you, so please email your questions, quandaries and conundrums to [email protected].
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
