HBR On Leadership
How to Earn Respect as a First-Time Manager
Mar 19, 2025
Kelsey Alpaio, a former HBR editor and co-host of the Women at Work podcast, teams up with Lareina Yee, a McKinsey senior partner and expert on women's management challenges. They explore the hurdles new managers face, particularly women, in balancing authority and camaraderie. The conversation dives into combating biases, the importance of recognition, and how to effectively communicate as a leader. They share insights on building trust and navigating the complexities of workplace dynamics to foster respect and collaboration.
38:44
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- New managers must balance authenticity with authority to gain respect while navigating peer relationships that have shifted post-promotion.
- Women in management face unique biases that can undermine their confidence, making allyship and effective communication crucial for overcoming these challenges.
Deep dives
Navigating New Managerial Roles
Transitioning to a management position poses unique challenges, especially when previous relationships with colleagues shift. New managers may struggle to gain respect and authority from peers who were once friends, leading to feelings of self-doubt. It’s essential to recognize that missteps, such as overly mimicking a managerial persona, can undermine genuine leadership. Building authenticity and confidence is crucial for establishing credibility in a new role.
