Throughout your professional journey, you will likely experience a change in leadership within your direct team—sometimes multiple times. In certain cases, these transitions are transparent, such as when a leader retires or moves on to a new opportunity. Other times, they may be less clear, resulting from confidential organizational restructuring or performance-related layoffs. Regardless of the circumstances, adjusting to a new leader can be an emotional and, at times, nerve-wracking experience.
While we may work for a well-known company, our daily experiences are often shaped by our direct leader. A strong connection with a leader can create an engaging and fulfilling professional environment—especially when that leader is highly respected, empowers their team, leads with empathy, and actively supports professional growth. Over time, as individuals develop mutual understanding in communication styles and work approaches, this relationship can become a key driver of job satisfaction. If fortunate, one may have the opportunity to work under such a leader for an extended period, benefiting both professionally and personally.
Recognizing the emotional impact of leadership transitions, it is crucial to quickly establish professional trust when a new leader joins. While it’s natural to experience a range of emotions during this change, channeling that energy into demonstrating your value can make a significant difference. Instead of dwelling on uncertainty, focus on instilling confidence in your new leader by showcasing your skills and expertise. Based on my 20 years of experience in People and Talent Management across global organizations, I’ve observed that a new leader’s primary responsibility often includes assessing their team’s capabilities to ensure they have the right talent to drive success.
In a new leader’s first year, I’ve observed significant changes within their direct teams as they assess individual performance, capabilities, impact, and relationships with peers and cross-functional partners. It’s important to remember that every interaction with your new leader serves as an opportunity to demonstrate your expertise and value. The sooner you establish trust and showcase your skills, the quicker you can cultivate a strong professional relationship—similar to the one you had with your previous leader.
