Co-worker to boss…making an effective career transition

I was recently promoted to lead a significant part of my company’s business in my current geography. I’ve had my eye on this position for a while and I have purposely been performing some of the duties at the higher level so my leadership had the confidence to promote me. Now that I have the position, I am struggling with the idea that I am equal to employees in other geographic locations; ones from whom I previously would ask for approval. I’ve been working with another colleague who has gone through similar growing pains, and she offered up some great advice.

First, obtaining clarification of my new responsibilities. It is critical to my success and the success of others around me that this is defined as clearly as possible. This will help me know when to speak up and quiet down. It will also give me confidence in my actions.

Second, she said tackle the easy stuff in my job. Work with the team I now oversee and exhibit my new role. This will also help me gain confidence in the new role and myself.

Finally, she said to continually remind myself that I am at the new level, and while I may feel awkward sometimes, it is better to push myself a bit in order to be more comfortable in professional situations.

Thanks to my colleague for sharing these great words of wisdom to help me gain confidence in my new role. What kind of advice would you give in this situation?