Earning respect as a first-time manager

[WORLD] Becoming a manager for the first time is an exciting yet challenging step in one’s career. The transition from peer to boss can create a unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to earning respect from a team. Experts from Harvard Business Review delve deep into the common struggles first-time managers face and how to overcome them.

Earning respect as a new manager is not just about authority; it's about building trust, clear communication, and the ability to lead effectively while managing self-doubt. This article explores the key strategies, offering actionable advice to help you gain the respect of your team.

The Challenge of Shifting from Peer to Boss

As a new manager, one of the toughest hurdles you may face is the shift from being a peer to becoming a leader. Suddenly, you're responsible for the people you used to work alongside. Lareina Yee, a senior partner at McKinsey, highlights how challenging this transition can be, especially when there are biases at play, such as gender bias, which can make it even harder for some to earn respect.

“Going from being friends with your peers to suddenly being their boss is not an easy transition,” Yee mentioned. The respect you need from your team might not be automatic, and it’s easy to make missteps. Trying too hard to act like a “manager” or reverting to familiar behaviors can backfire.

Key Strategies for Earning Respect

Establish Authority Without Overplaying It

One of the main concerns that many first-time managers have is how to balance authority. You don't want to be overly authoritative, but you also need to establish your role clearly. This means making decisions confidently and ensuring your team knows your expectations.

According to Yee, “It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking you have to play the role of the manager, but this often leads to a disconnect. Instead, focus on being authentic and building your credibility step by step.”

Be Transparent and Clear in Communication

Effective communication is critical in management. When you're a new manager, especially with direct reports who may have more experience, transparency can go a long way. Your team will respect you more if they understand the “why” behind your decisions, not just the “what.”

As Kelsey Alpaio shares, "The key to being taken seriously was making sure I communicated my decisions and expectations clearly, even when I doubted myself."

Develop Confidence in Your Decision-Making

A new manager can feel uncertain, especially when decisions seem like they might not be well-received. However, one of the best ways to earn respect is to show that you're capable of making decisions — and owning them.

Yee emphasizes that, “If you’re not confident in your choices, your team won’t be either. You may not always have all the answers, but it’s essential to make informed decisions and stand by them.”

Create a Feedback-Rich Environment

Another critical component of earning respect as a manager is being open to feedback. This demonstrates humility and a willingness to grow alongside your team. By seeking input from your team members, you not only build trust, but you also ensure that your leadership style is evolving to meet the needs of those you manage.

According to Bernstein, “I learned that you can’t expect respect without giving it first. Listening actively to feedback and fostering an environment where it’s safe for your team to share their thoughts is essential.”

Don't Shy Away from Difficult Conversations

Managing people isn’t always smooth sailing. As a new manager, you’ll likely need to address underperformance or resolve conflicts within your team. While it might feel uncomfortable, addressing issues head-on in a professional, constructive manner will earn you respect over time.

Yee advises, “Avoiding tough conversations might seem like a shortcut, but it only creates bigger problems later. Being direct and empathetic in these situations builds respect.”

Set Clear Expectations and Hold People Accountable

Setting clear expectations is one of the most powerful tools you have as a manager. When your team knows exactly what is expected of them and the consequences of not meeting those expectations, it helps foster an environment of trust and respect.

"Setting clear goals and holding people accountable helps you earn respect because your team knows you’re consistent and fair,” says Alpaio. This consistency creates a sense of stability and reliability that people value in a leader.

Be a Role Model for Professionalism

As a new manager, your team will observe your behavior closely. Whether it’s punctuality, work ethic, or communication style, they will model their behavior based on what they see in you. Therefore, being a role model for professionalism is a key part of earning respect.

Bernstein shares, “Your team will notice the small things — your commitment to deadlines, how you treat others, and your approach to work-life balance. Show them how you expect to be treated.”

Navigating Gender Bias and Other Challenges

For women, the challenge of earning respect can be even more daunting due to biases that still exist in the workplace. As Yee explains, “Bias can make it especially difficult for women to be taken seriously in leadership positions. They might face more resistance to their authority, which can be frustrating.”

It’s important to acknowledge these biases, but not let them define your leadership style. Building a network of mentors, both inside and outside the organization, can provide valuable guidance and support in overcoming these hurdles.

The Importance of Resilience

Lastly, resilience is essential. There will be moments when things don’t go as planned, when you feel like you’re not being taken seriously, or when self-doubt creeps in. However, it’s vital to remain resilient. Over time, your consistency, professionalism, and authenticity will earn you the respect you deserve.

“Don’t let setbacks define you,” Yee advises. “Resilience is one of the greatest assets you can have as a manager. You will face difficulties, but your ability to stay grounded and learn from these experiences will earn you the respect of your team.”

Earning respect as a first-time manager is a gradual process. By focusing on communication, transparency, setting clear expectations, and being a role model, you can overcome the initial challenges of this transition. While it takes time, the strategies shared by experts like Lareina Yee and Kelsey Alpaio can help pave the way for a successful leadership journey.

Remember, respect is earned through consistency, authenticity, and the ability to lead with confidence. Stay resilient, communicate openly, and embrace your role as both a leader and a learner.