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Dealing with manager who was passed over
The question: I've recently promoted one of my mid-level managers to the sole, and recently vacated, senior post, a move that has generated lots of hard feelings with another middle manager who was passed over and who's been with the company longer. How do I make him understand my decision while keeping my role intact as head of the company?Dr. Spann responds...
Reaffirm Person's Value as a Manager
At an off-premises meeting, explain that you understand he is angry, you respect his skills, experience and longevity and want to tell him personally what led to your decision. List the specific skills you required for this position. Tell him that you did consider him, but you felt the other person had the better set of skills for the top job. Reaffirm that he's a valuable manager and that you would like him to stay on, but that it's important he cooperate with the new senior manager.
Calmly repeat as many times as necessary that you're sorry he disagrees, but as the owner it's your responsibility to make those decisions. Reiterate that you hope he'll continue to be a positive, contributing middle manager in your company.