Leave Your Old Job Behind After Being Promoted. When you’re promoted to a leadership position, it’s tempting to hang on to your old responsibilities. But trying to do both jobs prevents you and your team from growing. Here’s how to shift from executing to leading. Get clear on your new role. Don’t assume your new scope is obvious.
When you’re promoted to a leadership position, it’s tempting to hang on to your old responsibilities. But trying to do both jobs prevents you and your team from growing. Here’s how to shift from executing to leading.
Get clear on your new role. Don’t assume your new scope is obvious. Ask your boss what success looks like now, how your role differs from your predecessor’s, and what outcomes you own. This clarity will shape how you focus your time and energy.
Set a hard transition date. Choose a firm date to hand off your old work and communicate it clearly to everyone. Introduce your successor in meetings, redirect messages to them, and explain to former stakeholders that your remit has changed.
Craft your leadership narrative. You’re no longer in the weeds—you’re guiding strategy. Write a short statement that defines the value you now bring, and share it with your peers to align expectations and establish your authority.
Redirect, don’t rescue. When others come to you with legacy questions, resist the urge to jump in. Point them to the right person, signal trust in your team, and address any clarity gaps behind the scenes.
Enlist a thought partner. A coach or advisor can help you shift from doing to leading by challenging your mindset and helping you communicate new boundaries effectively.
