You’ve Just Been Promoted to Manager — Here’s How It Changes Your Work Relationships

Getting promoted into a manager role is exciting - it’s a sign of trust, responsibility, and recognition. But the shift from peer to leader comes with new expectations and changes in how you relate to your team, your boss, and even yourself.

Here’s what to expect - and how to navigate it:

👥 1. Your Relationship with Former Peers Will Shift

The biggest and often most awkward change is going from colleague to supervisor. The people you once shared frustrations or after-work drinks with may now look at you differently.

• You might be excluded from certain conversations.

• You’ll need to balance being approachable with maintaining authority.

• Some friends may test boundaries or expect special treatment — you’ll need to stay fair and consistent.

Tip: Be transparent, set clear expectations early, and focus on mutual respect.

🔄 2. You’ll Be Expected to Manage Up and Down

As a manager, you’re no longer just responsible for your own tasks — you’re the bridge between your team and senior leadership.

• Your manager will expect strategic thinking, not just task completion.

• Your team will look to you for direction, clarity, and support.

• You’ll need to advocate for your team while aligning with business goals.

Tip: Learn to communicate clearly, prioritise effectively, and keep both sides informed.

🧠 3. Decision-Making and Accountability Increase

You’ll be asked to make decisions, handle conflict, and take responsibility for outcomes — even when they’re hard or unpopular.

• No more waiting for someone else to fix things.

• You’ll need to develop confidence in your judgment and own your mistakes.

Tip: Don’t aim to be perfect—aim to be fair, consistent, and honest.

💬 4. Feedback Becomes Part of Your Job

Giving and receiving feedback becomes a core part of your role.

• You’ll be expected to coach, develop, and occasionally discipline.

• You’ll also need to seek feedback on your leadership style and impact.

Tip: Create regular check-ins, and make feedback normal, not a once-a-year thing.

❤️ 5. Leadership Is About People, Not Power

Great managers don’t micromanage, they support, trust, and empower. Your job is to build a culture where people can do their best work.

• Celebrate wins, listen to concerns, and lead with empathy.

• Your success is now measured through the success of others.

Tip: Shift from “How can I do this?” to “How can I support others to succeed?”

Your promotion is a proud milestone - but it’s also a growth opportunity. Expect your relationships to evolve and your responsibilities to grow. With the right mindset and support, you won’t just manage people, you’ll lead them.