APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions, plus try our money-saving tips.
Here she gives advice to a reader who wants to show authority in her new role whilst remaining authentic.
Q: I’ve recently taken on a leadership role at work, but even though I’m confident in my job, I’m a softly spoken, calm and naturally quiet person and, in my previous job, I’m aware some of my colleagues thought they could take advantage of me because of this.
I don’t want to have to be somebody I’m not or behave in a way I don’t feel comfortable with, but how can I approach my new management position with an authentic authority?
Ciara, via email
A: Congratulations on your new leadership role.
It’s great to hear that you want to uphold your authentic self while establishing your authority.
There’s a common misconception that creating authority in the workplace requires you to be loud or aggressive – but it is absolutely not the most important trait in a leader.
Think about leaders you admire. I bet integrity, vision, empathy and trustworthiness are much higher on their skills list than being loud.
Communication is important, as you must be able to share your vision and get your team on board, but there are many ways to communicate and be assertive without shouting.
Set clear boundaries and expectations for your team from the outset, and maintain them.
While your voice doesn’t need to be the loudest, it needs to be respected.
If you are spoken over, be firm and speak directly to the person interrupting you by using their name and saying: “Please allow me to finish what I am saying, then you may add your thoughts.”
See this as a development opportunity for you to step outside of your comfort zone when required.
You could also consider finding a coach who can identify and strengthen your development areas.
