I’m a Manager - Now what!?

Navigating the new manager promotion can be tricky. Take it from someone who’s worked with new managers for many years.

You’ve worked hard, shown up, and proved yourself. You asked for the promotion (perhaps more than once!), and now you’ve finally landed it.

You’ve got the job title you were aiming for, the pay rise, the bigger meetings on your calendar.

And now, the reality sets in, and it can feel a little daunting.

If you're wondering, “Now what?” you’re not alone. A promotion brings excitement, but also a fresh set of challenges. The pressure to step up, lead effectively, and manage expectations can be overwhelming. So, how do you do it?

The Moment of Realisation: “I Got the Promotion… Now What?!”

It’s a classic scenario. You’ve put in the hours, made the right moves, had the right conversations, and earned your seat at the table.

But as you sit there, you might find yourself questioning everything:

• Am I really worth this salary increase?
  

• What will my colleagues think of me now that I’m in charge?
  

• Do I need to completely change how I show up at work?

Here’s the tricky part. When you’re promoted internally, everything changes, and yet nothing does. You’re still working with the same team, but the expectations have shifted. You’re now expected to lead, make decisions, and influence, sometimes over your peers.

It’s a transition from being a team member to being a team leader. And that shift can feel intimidating. But it doesn’t have to knock you off your feet.

Embrace the Shift: How to Own Your Leadership Role

Stepping into a new managerial role can feel like stepping into the ring for the first time. There’s anticipation, pressure, and the weight of expectation. But it’s also your opportunity to show that you can lead with impact, that you can pack a punch when it counts.

Here are a few key strategies to help you transition smoothly:

1. Acknowledge Your New Role

The first step is to acknowledge that things have changed. You’re no longer just one of the team, you’re leading it. This shift in dynamics can feel awkward at first, but it’s important to embrace the responsibility that comes with leadership.

Take some time to reflect on the skills and experiences that got you here. I often recommend getting out of your usual environment — go for a walk, grab a coffee, or sit somewhere new. A change of scenery helps you think more clearly.

You didn’t earn your promotion by accident. You put in the work. Own it.

2. Lead with Empathy

It’s tempting to feel like you need to have all the answers, or that you need to assert your authority right away. But some of the best leaders know how to lead with empathy.

Be curious about your team’s challenges. Support their growth. Show up consistently. Leading with compassion and a willingness to listen builds the kind of trust that lasts.

And remember, trust goes both ways.

3. Set Clear Expectations

As a manager, you’ll need to establish new boundaries and expectations, not just for your team, but for yourself.

Clear communication is key. Be upfront about priorities, performance standards and the direction you want to go in as a team. Don’t let this slide just because you’re worried about this first meeting feeling a little awkward.

This is also the perfect time to check in with your team. What are their goals? What do they need from you? Aligning your team’s objectives with the broader business goals creates a sense of shared purpose.

Even a simple, “How can I help?” can go a long way in your early days.

4. Find Your Leadership Style

There’s no single blueprint for how to lead well. What works for someone else might not work for you, and that’s okay.

You don’t need to reinvent yourself, but you do need to recognise that your role has changed. Experiment with different approaches: being more hands-on, offering more autonomy, or being a sounding board. Then see what feels authentic, and what gets results.

Don’t be afraid to take a few hits while you figure this out. I once had a very relaxed leadership style that my senior team loved. Then, a more junior member joined, and they needed much more structure and guidance. The autonomy that inspired some felt like a lack of support to others.

You’ll find your rhythm, just hold your ground.

5. Own Your Decision-Making

One of the most confronting shifts is the weight of decision-making. You can’t rely on someone else to call the shots anymore, it’s on you.

The key? Trust yourself. Back your judgement. Make decisions that align with your values, your team’s needs, and the organisation’s goals.

And above all, don’t hide behind your own manager. If you believe a bold decision is what your team or business needs, take the shot. You’re not here to be popular. You’re here to lead.

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

If you’re feeling the pressure, you’re not the only one. Plenty of new managers find themselves wobbling in the early rounds, unsure of how to navigate tricky dynamics or how to lead with confidence.

Having someone in your corner can make all the difference.

Working with a coach can help you refine your leadership style, unpack the bits that feel overwhelming, and give you the space to grow into the role without wasting your energy on second-guessing every move.

You’ve earned your place. Now it’s time to own it.

You’ve got this. And, I’ve got you.

Need more support?

Book a free call with me and let’s explore how I can help you navigate this new role.