Taking over a team is one of the most important transitions a leader can go through. The instinct in those first few days is often to “step in and show leadership.” But sometimes, what a team needs most is space—to share, to be heard, and to let you in at their pace.
When inheriting a team, especially one shaped by a warm, trusted leader, the focus should be less on making a strong impression and more on building trust. The early days are the time to:
Listen generously. Observe how people work together. Ask questions that invite perspectives. Let the team’s stories surface before sharing your own.
Show warmth without overwhelm. Moving back to in-person workplaces means our presence feels more immediate than it did on Zoom. For leaders with big energy, it’s important to be mindful—your enthusiasm should feel inclusive, not exhausting.
Respect team rhythms. Every team has its own pace, norms, and history. Honoring that creates the foundation for future alignment.
Of course, no transition is flawless. Sometimes our eagerness to contribute is received well, and other times it isn’t. That’s natural. What matters is how we respond. Staying open to feedback, being willing to adjust, and showing vulnerability are all part of earning long-term trust.
For leaders stepping into new roles, the invitation is clear: let your presence reassure, not pressure. Listening first doesn’t mean delaying leadership—it means setting the stage so when you do act, the team is ready to act with you.