If you have just had a promotion, you will likely be both proud and excited. While congratulations are in order, there are certain things you shouldn’t do if you don’t want to annoy your colleagues. We take a look at 25 things you shouldn’t do when you are promoted:
Brag Excessively
While it is good to pat yourself on the back, excessive bragging can alienate colleagues. Instead, let your achievements speak for themselves by showing people just how good you are.
Forget to Thank Your Supporters
Most people get a promotion with the help of others along the way. Whether it be an old boss who taught you the skills you needed to get to where you are or a partner who picked things up at home while you worked long hours, it’s important to acknowledge the people who helped you get there.
Throw Shade at Former Colleagues
It’s rude to badmouth your old team, even if your words are true. Focus on the positive path forward and leave any negativity in the past.
Announce a Sudden Departure
You may want to keep your plans to move on to a new role quiet until you have completed the recruitment process, but do let your current team know as soon as possible. You should follow your company guidelines when giving notices and think about how you can help your old team transition.
Burn Bridges
You never know when you might need help from your old peers, so try not to say anything you will regret when you leave. There will be reasons for moving on, but you may need to take a backward step if things don’t work out.
Micromanage Your Old Team
If you get a promotion to the same team, be mindful not to micromanage them. You should trust your team’s skills and be the leader that you have been appointed as.
Make Promises You Can’t Keep
It is normal to want to make a good impression in your new role, but don’t overcommit and risk losing trust with your new team. If you’re unsure if something is achievable, let your team member know you will look into it rather than get in over your head.
Forget About Your Network
Whether you stay in the same company or move on to another in a similar industry, it is important to maintain relationships with colleagues to keep up to date with the latest news and share knowledge.
Assume You Know Everything
Even though you have successfully gotten a promotion, there’s always more to learn. As you take on your new challenge, seek mentorship from someone who has been doing the role for a while or look at additional training.
Neglect Your Old Responsibilities
You will be excited to move into your next role, but to ensure a smooth transition and to be fair to the person taking over your old role, you should complete a full handover.
Become Inaccessible
Taking on a new role can be stressful as you determine what you need to do and what changes you want to make. But you should find time for your new team members and peers so you don’t become unapproachable.
Underestimate the Learning Curve
It can take time to settle into a new role, as there will be new skills and systems to master. Patience is needed while you adjust to your new job, so try not to be too hard on yourself.
Work Excessive Hours
While you will want to make a good impression on your new role, you won’t be effective long-term if you’re burnt out. Prioritize your well-being and work your set hours rather than staying back every night.
Neglect Personal Relationships
If you’re leaving the office on time but picking up work at home, it is time to rethink your priorities. You should make time for friends and family who can give you the necessary downtime as you adjust to your new position.
Forget to Delegate
Being a good role model is not about doing everything yourself. You can empower the team around you by delegating tasks that allow you to focus on strategic priorities.
Become Disconnected
While you should avoid being chained to your phone 24/7, you should still be engaged with what’s happening around you. If you have an office away from everyone, take time to walk around the food or grab a coffee break with other employees to see how the whole business is going.
Disrespect Your Old Boss
It is always good to maintain a professional relationship, even if you move on. You may be glad you have moved on to bigger things, but disrespecting people you used to work with will raise red flags with your current colleagues.
Make Sudden Drastic Changes
When you take on a new role, you will have exciting ideas about how you can improve the business, but try not to move too fast. Evaluate the situation, seek input, and implement changes strategically.
Lead with Fear
Good communication is the key to getting anything done, no matter how big or small your organization is. Foster a positive and collaborative work environment where you respect your team’s ideas rather than take a dictatorial approach.
Forget to Listen
While you will want to change your new role, so might other people in your organization. Listen to what they feel could work better and make an inclusive plan to move forward.
Become Complacent
If the changes you make when you first take on your role work out well, don’t be complacent. You shouldn’t stop learning and growing, as there are many opportunities for continuous improvement.
Forget About Your Goals
One new role doesn’t mean you are set for life. You should revisit your long-term career aspirations and adjust your course if needed.
Lose Sight of Your Values
It’s easy to get lost in success, but you should try to maintain the work ethic and values that got you promoted. It is important to remember where you came from and value the people who helped you get to where you are.
Doubt Yourself
It is important to believe in your abilities and remember your hard work to earn this promotion. Leave imposter syndrome behind and embrace the challenge with confidence.
Be Afraid to Change Your Mind
Sometimes, a new role seems like it will be perfect for you, but the reality is it’s not for you. Never stay in a job that is not satisfying if you can afford not to. You can always ask to return to your old role or look for new opportunities elsewhere.