From friend to leader

Leader Question: Are you and your team clear in which role you are communicating?

As a leader, you may take on different roles depending on the situation. You can communicate as a friend, manager or leader.

Especially if you are ascending or have already ascended to leadership within a team, it can be challenging for you and your team to clearly differentiate which role you are in.

How can you ensure that your different roles are understood and respected by your team?

1️⃣ Clarity and transparency: Communicate clearly from the beginning what your role is in different situations, especially when it comes to decision-making or team performance. Be transparent about your expectations and goals as a leader to avoid misunderstandings.

For example, next time at team night, you can note that you are there as a friend today.

2️⃣ Professional Behavior: Act professionally and fairly in your leadership role. Make decisions based on objective criteria and communicate them clearly and respectfully.

Imagine you are organizing a team meeting and went out with some colleagues the night before. Before the meeting, set the goal of treating the entire team equally. Avoid personal preferences.

3️⃣ Reference to place: If you are giving performance feedback, for example, you can do so in a more formal setting to make the distinction between your role as leader and your role as friend clearer.

Prepare the room so that it is clear that this is a business conversation. For example, set out two glasses of water, arrange the tables and chairs, and lay out your notes if necessary.

4️⃣ Reflection and feedback: Take time for regular reflection and also ask your team for feedback. Ask them how they perceive your communication and handling of different roles and if they have suggestions for improvement.

Sit down in the morning and write down the names of your teammates. Think about your role boundaries and ask them afterwards how they see it.

Notice:

By being intentional about role clarification, you can help build a strong relationship between you and your team. Openness, transparency and clear communication are critical to maintaining trust and understanding within the team.

Let's do this! 🚀

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