Getting a promotion is obviously a step forward in your career but what happens when you get promoted over some of your co-workers who you now have to manage?

In addition to being promoted over other people who may have wanted the same job, you now face the task of managing people who view you as a peer and possibly as a friend.

There can be a difference between being a peer and being a manager so it's best to recognize the changes that occur once you get promoted.

You obviously have a job to do but you will also want to remain friendly and cordial with your co-workers while ensuring that things get done properly.

The reality is that you will be managing people who previously were at the same level as you were so it is likely that your relationship with them will change in your new role. You'll need to learn how to be firm without being bossy and you'll need to recognize how to give (and accept) constructive feedback when required.

When moving up the corporate ladder, you might find times such as these when the relationship you have with others in the company changes and you have to adjust how you deal with these people.

The first thing you might do once you begin your new job is to sit down with each of your staff members individually and simply set the expectations in a pleasant manner. Let them know what they can expect from you now that you are their manager and what you expect from them.

Carl Mueller is an Internet entrepreneur and professional recruiter who wants to help you find your dream career.

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