New leader must show confidence

Q I’ve been promoted at work to team leader, replacing the former person who spent five years overseeing a division of our company. He was autocratic and worked only with a couple of his favourites. I’ve been asked to be more inclusive and make positive changes. I’ve invited other colleagues to join in a more collaborative approach, only to have this former leader question everything and openly criticize me. How do I handle this hostile co-worker? Change Agent

A You’re the company’s new choice as leader and must show confidence in yourself. Go ahead with your proposed changes, but first prepare the colleagues you invite into consultation with you on these moves.

Be forthright and confident about why the changes are needed, but pay attention to others’ opinions. If some are worthwhile, show that you’re open to fine-tuning.

Meanwhile, if he continues his critical responses, keep a record of whether and how he’s creating a divided work environment within the company. Before other employees get too divided under his influence, take the record to human resources and/ or your boss.