Tue 27 April 2021 

Taking Over for a Bad Leader? Follow These Steps.

Every leader has to face their predecessor’s legacy. What should you do when you're replacing someone who was particularly inept, unlikeable, or controversial? Here are three strategies that can help you manage the transition — and help your team move on:

1. Acknowledge the contributions of the previous leader. Don’t only highlight their shortcomings or blame them for all of the organization’s current challenges.

2. Create space for reconciliation and establish a direction for the future. Most bad leaders’ actions are, in part, rooted in good intentions. Openly acknowledging the gap between the previous leader’s vision and their results will create room for forgiveness and help you set a new course.

3. Seek to understand your employees’ experience. Some people may remain supportive of previous leadership, while others directly felt adverse effects. Ask your team what they want and need going forward — and do your best to oblige.

You don’t automatically become a good leader merely by taking over for a bad one. Ultimately, you become a good leader by distinguishing yourself, being inclusive, and having an eye toward the future.

This tip is adapted from “What Good Leaders Do When Replacing Bad Leaders,” by Andrew Blum