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How should I go about building an effective working relationship with a direct who doesnt want to be managed?

I am just about to take on the role of managing a newly formed team (two existing teams brought together). I've been warned that one of the team members is very sensitive about her position within the new structure (sees it as a demotion as she is now a layer further removed from the GM). She also considers herself an expert in her field and is quick to tell everyone how many years experience she has. She likes to be autonomous and my perception is that she would consider any attempts at conversations around her career aspirations, development opportunities etc would make her defensive. Any advice? Any podcasts related to this that you can point me to? Thanks

timrutter's picture

To take a quote, there's a podcast for that:

http://www.manager-tools.com/2010/01/how-manage-arrogant-producer

She might not wants a boss, she might not want you as her boss, but we don't get what we want. 

 

 

 

duplicate_account_MarkAus's picture

In addition to the above, don't forget the MT advice about the first 90 days and rolling out the trinity for these new people.   There's a few podcasts on that.

Make sure you put some work in to building a relationship with this person, which will give you indications around how to manage her.

Steph_NZ's picture

Many thanks Tim. Very helpful!

Steph_NZ's picture

Many thanks Tim. Very helpful!