Another level hired above me

Anonymous

April 22,2023 at 5:44AM UTC

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Another level hired above me

I am struggling with a new layer of management. My old manager is now my new manager's boss.

I like this person but they are constantly doing my job and directing my team. It's only been a few months but I've already felt my team going directly to her instead of me. It really has me questioning my value and usefulness in my role.

The conclusion seemingly is that I am not providing what they need. I've discussed this some with them - and have no feedback in this regard. Both new boss and former boss have told me they are 100% committed to helping me reach the next level of management.

It feels like what they are saying is at odds with the reality of the situation. It has ROCKED my confidence and I really do not know how to handle this.

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AnonymousApril 22,2023 at 7:28AM UTC
It happened to me and I decided to find another job instead of wasting my energy trying to fix the situation.
Leila AnsartApril 22,2023 at 12:32PM UTC
I'm sorry this is happening to you. Here are a few things you can do to be proactive:
Go back to your job description and double check that you have optimized your performance against that. Try to think about it from a different context - is there anything you could do to add even more value in the areas you are expected? If already doing this, could you provide a monthly report or slide deck showing accomplishments, metrics you and your team have hit, etc.
You can also see if the new and former boss have any feedback on specific skills they can identify that you need to develop further to be ready for the "next level of management". If nothing is identified, the case may be that they mean well but don't have the authority or foresight to be able to champion you for a promotion.
Be patient, while also keeping your eyes open for other opportunities that can position you for growth in leadership.
Keep in mind some organizations make changes like this and leave their mid-managers little power to do much about their talent's development. It may not be about you.
AnonymousApril 24,2023 at 12:35PM UTC
Firstly is to acknowledge that this is a feeling and it will pass. Try and find the facts to be able to present it to your boss's. They should be open to hearing feedback on their own management style and want to help find ways of working that benefits all. Try and not be intimidated by them because they are higher than you, try to find equal playing field. Be open to any feedback they have about you and try and grow from this situation.
L HApril 24,2023 at 4:47PM UTC
Keep positive ask for specific feedback about what you can do to continue to manage your team directly. Let them know you are willing to hear things that may be uncomfortable because you want to learn. Make a plan to correct if there are corrections to be made and also concurrently look outside of the business for other positions where you can fit into the level you want to be in. It will be tough but if they are saying they want to help you and you are tenured there you should give them some time, with your help of course, to be able to do this. You should also sit down the new manager and let them know where you feel there are issues between you- maybe unclear direction to the direct reports below- and come up with an alignment for how to do this going forward.
AnonymousApril 24,2023 at 11:47PM UTC
They are weeding you out. They want you to quit rather than pay severance.