Adapting and thriving during a change in workplace leadership
When there is a change in managerial positions at the workplace, it affects the entire work environment, including team dynamics and workflow. A new leader's approach and style can create opportunities for some and challenges for others
On 28 October 2022, immediately after acquiring Twitter, Elon Musk became the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the organisation. After taking over, he laid off roughly three-fourths of the employees, including some top-tier executives. He later implemented additional changes, including renaming the platform 'X,' a decision that faced significant criticism.
As a result of these sudden changes, the remaining employees were uncertain about their future within the company, leading many to leave, ultimately reducing the workforce by 80%. Such uncertainty occurs in nearly every organisation when a new leader takes charge, affecting everyone from entry-level staff to mid-level managers.
Adapting to new leadership styles
In times of leadership change, employees often have to adjust to new leadership styles. It is highly likely that the new leader's approach to leadership, teamwork, and cooperation will differ from the previous one.
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"An immediate response from employees is resistance to change and ambiguity," says Asif Hasan, Senior Business Development Manager at British American Tobacco Bangladesh.
Newly appointed leaders often seek to show immediate growth within the organisation to justify their appointment. To achieve this, they may implement unfamiliar changes, causing employees to feel unsettled. The first priority for employees should be to observe the leader's expectations and adjust accordingly.
"As most employees cannot directly approach the top boss, they should reach out to their line or unit managers to clarify the nature of changes the organisation is aiming for," Asif advises.
During this transition, staying calm and focused on work can reduce uncertainty. Clear communication and asking questions are helpful strategies to avoid misunderstandings.
Due to differences in priorities, the new leader may also expect updated skills from employees that the previous leader did not. According to Asif, being open to change is crucial for survival in any organisational shift. He emphasises the importance of transparent communication from both employees and management to succeed under new leadership.
Change as an opportunity for growth
Some employees may find it frustrating when new leaders expect updated or different skills. However, embracing change as an opportunity for growth can be beneficial in the long run. By viewing these challenges as opportunities for both personal and professional development, employees can not only enhance their abilities but also position themselves for future success. Adapting to new expectations can lead to fresh perspectives and open new career paths.
Farhan Sakib, a Deputy Manager at 10 Minute School, notes that new leadership often introduces new projects, while deprioritising older ones. Mid-level managers and entry-level employees tend to struggle the most with such transitions.
Farhan also highlights that adaptability should not be one-sided. "The leader should also be willing to adapt," he says. "Understanding each other's perspectives through open discussion is essential."
Sometimes colleagues are uncooperative with junior employees, seeing them as competitors for the boss's attention. In such cases, maintaining professionalism and open communication is key
Building trust and communication
Enamul Hasan Huzaifa, Assistant Manager of Human Resources at US-Bangla Group, stresses the importance of communication and trust-building in addition to flexibility and openness.
"When employees provide feedback and share concerns with new management, it helps address issues early and makes the transition smoother," he explains.
Some leaders may prioritise first impressions when evaluating employees. Being proactive and demonstrating value and commitment early on can help reduce the risk of misjudgment.
Mohammad Rabin, a Retail Sales Officer at Megaman Bangladesh, has worked under numerous managers during his eight-year career in sales. "To avoid miscommunication, I initiate friendly conversations with new managers, which improves our mutual understanding," Rabin shares.
He also advises junior employees to seek help from more experienced colleagues when necessary. "Experienced colleagues are often more adept at adapting to change. Asking for their guidance can ease the transition for entry-level employees," Rabin adds.
Office politics: A persistent challenge
With new leadership, some employees may immediately seek to gain favour with the boss, sometimes at the expense of others. This can lead to marginalising colleagues based on personal or political affiliations.
Rabin has witnessed the negative side of this as well. "Sometimes colleagues are uncooperative with junior employees, seeing them as competitors for the boss's attention. In such cases, maintaining professionalism and open communication is key," he advises.
Change can be both challenging and rewarding. Approaching the situation with an open mind and staying adaptable can help employees thrive during transitions. Effective communication and flexibility are essential for navigating leadership changes successfully.
