Dear Consultant, 

I’ve been working in summer camp for the last five years as a camp counselor.  This year I’ve been asked to coordinate the activities of over 30 of my former colleagues.  Up until now, I’ve always been on the same level as them, how can I change the way I act at work to be seen as an authority figure?

Moving roles into a position of authority can be a mental shift for the leader and also for the followers.  People tend to expect certain things from a person in a role of authority, and frequently it is easiest to just give them what they expect, professional leadership which includes fulfilling your role. 

Below are some tips to help you professionally fulfill your role as an authority figure.  These are based on industry best practices as well as from information Yukl (2013).

1)      Make your requests very clear and concise while still being thoughtful and polite to those you are addressing.  Be respectful when you make your requests, but not apologetic unless there is a reason to be.

2)      Always explain the rationale for the tasks you are asking people to perform.  Especially if the tasks are out of the ordinary.  People always want to know “why” and be convinced what they are doing is worthwhile.

3)      If there is ever a question about whether you’re overstepping your authority, check with your superior about the issue.  Have a clear idea of what you can and cannot do, make sure that everyone understands the boundaries of your role.

4)      Make sure that you do things “by the book.”  If you’re new to a role, and if there is ambiguity around a decision, try to follow what has been done before.  Follow processes if they exist, if not then your good judgement should be followed, while keeping the best interest of the organization in mind.

5)      Remember to follow up on tasks you’ve asked people to do.  A lack of follow-up can frequently be interpreted by followers as a lack of priority, leading to things not getting done.  Follow-up politely but consistently.

6)      If things aren’t getting done, it is your job to insist that it they are completed.  Do it in way that is fair and do it in a way that is consistent between employees.

For someone who has never been in a position of authority before, these six tips may help you to effectively perform your role and hopefully will help you to be perceived as an authority figure to your employees.

References: http://www.amazon.ca/Leadership-Organizations-Edition-Gary-Yukl/dp/0132771861