Your authority is challenged by a senior manager in front of the team. How will you assert your leadership?

A pillar of good leadership is being calm, particularly under pressure. Having been a CTO for more than nine years, I have seen many high-stress situations when maintaining composure was crucial for leading my team and handling stakeholders. Based on my experience, here are some ideas : 1. Embrace the Power of a Deep Breath 2. Avoid Defensive Reactions 3. Model Professionalism for Your Team 4. Focus on Solutions, Not Problems 5. Communicate Calmly and Clearly 6. Acknowledge Mistakes and Learn from Them

Although it is in poor taste to challenge your subordinate in front of their reports, it may happen from time to time. I feel the best way to handle this is to calmly state (or reiterate) your position with the supporting facts, then make a point to tell your leader that you would be more than happy to have further review with them during a one-on-one meeting. I would then proceed with the current agenda.

More than just hearing words, active listening is a vital ability for good leadership and dispute resolution. As a CTO, I have discovered that resolving disagreements, developing confidence, and creating a cooperative atmosphere all depend on active listening. Here’are some steps for, how to practice active listening and its impact on your role: 1. Give the Senior Manager the Floor Without Interruption 2. Reflect and Clarify Understanding 3. Acknowledge the Speaker’s Concerns 4. Demonstrate Empathy Through Non-Verbal Cues 5. Address Concerns Constructively 6. Encourage Open Dialogue

During a project review meeting, a senior manager expressed concerns about our timeline. When it was my turn to speak, I acknowledged their concerns: "I understand your worries about the schedule." Then, I diplomatically asserted my position: "Our team has implemented additional measures to ensure we meet the deadline. Your feedback has been invaluable in guiding these improvements." By focusing on the issue and using "you" statements, I maintained a respectful and confident tone. This approach demonstrated to my team that it's possible to assert authority without confrontation, exemplifying mature leadership.

When asserting your position diplomatically, acknowledge the senior manager's concerns and present your perspective confidently. Use 'you' statements to focus on the issue, not the person. This shows your team that you can assert your authority without confrontation, a hallmark of mature leadership. Remember, clarity and respect in communication help maintain a professional environment and reinforce your leadership credibility.