APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chairman Karren Brady answers all your career questions and also tries out our money-saving tips.
Here she offers advice to a reader who wants to demonstrate authority in her new role, while remaining authentic.
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Q: I recently took on a leadership role at work, but while I am confident in my job, I am a gentle, calm, and naturally quiet person. In addition, I know that some colleagues in my previous job felt they could take advantage of me because of this.
I don’t want to be someone I’m not or behave in a way that I’m not comfortable with. But how can I approach my new management position with authentic authority?
Ciara, via email
A: Congratulations on your new leadership role.
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It’s great to hear that you want to maintain your authentic self and build your authority at the same time.
There is a common misconception that you have to be loud or aggressive to create authority in the workplace. But that is absolutely not the most important quality of a leader.
Think of leaders you admire. I bet integrity, vision, empathy, and trustworthiness are much higher on their list of skills than being loud.
Communication is important because you need to be able to share your vision and convince your team. However, there are many ways to communicate and be assertive without shouting.
Set and enforce clear boundaries and expectations for your team from the start.
Your voice doesn’t have to be very loud, but it should be respected.
If you are drowned out, be firm and speak directly to the person interrupting you by stating his or her name and saying, “Allow me to finish what I am saying, and then you can add your thoughts.”
See this as an opportunity to develop yourself and, if necessary, step out of your comfort zone.
You may also consider seeking a coach who can identify and strengthen your development areas.
