Promotions, like any new position, come with growing pains. Whether you’re going for a promotion or were just recently promoted, keep these things in mind during this transition.
Although your boss believes in you, your coworkers may not.
Whether your coworkers are jealous that they weren't chosen for the promotion, or can’t fathom a world where you are more senior than them (or one in which you delegate orders to them), keep your distance. In the end, you have a new job to do regardless of others’ skepticism. You don’t need their approval, though their buy-in would be helpful.
Likewise, your new team of peers may also be hesitant to let you into their more senior circle. Unfortunately, this is common and can make your transition much more difficult. They may feel threatened by the recent attention you’ve been getting from leadership, or they may worry that your skill set is not up to par. In the end, you’ve been promoted because a more senior person believed in you and your ability. In all likelihood, these unfriendly coworkers will eventually come around to you. Just resist the urge to meet their nastiness with nastiness. Remain professional and don’t give them reasons to doubt you.
If you’re witnessing a coworker’s promotion, or meet someone who was recently promoted to your level, support them. When the roles are reversed, you’ll want others to support you.
Have you experienced growing pains in your professional relationships after a promotion? Tell us about it.