Summary:  You get a joy of watching people grow into new roles. Sometimes with a promotion that means one other person doesn’t get it. Handled properly you can keep them interested and motivated.

If you the type of leader that coaches and mentors those around you – one of the greatest joys is watching them grow and accept a new position. At times the new position will report to you and at other times they will move onto a new department. In this scenario all is good. Many times what is not discussed is what happens to either the person who doesn’t get the promotion or when a person is not given the opportunity to do more.

If not handled properly you may end up with a person who is demotivated, disillusioned and disinterested. I’m sure these options are not very appealing. If you manage it right,  you will have a person interested in working harder and better for the opportunity next time.

This means doing some preparation before the promotion. To start with you will need a clear understanding of what the position/project requires, skills needed and personal characteristics. I know it sounds like you are preparing to hire someone, well in a sense you are. The difference is the candidates already work for you.

After you make your decision you will want to talk to both people who were considered. First to the person who got the job/project. After they accept explain there was one other person interested and you will be speaking to them next. This is so they are aware of the possible tension that may occur but you don’t expect it to last.

Talk to the person who didn’t get the job/project. This is a more delicate situation and you should speak to them before any announcements are made. Explain you have given the opportunity to someone else. Tell them why and what they need to work on in order to have the opportunity the next time around. It is this development that will make the difference.

When people know and understand the “why” they will be more accepting. Will they be disappointed…yes, however they won’t stay that way for long.

By giving people a direction and instructions, they will work towards the goal.

How do you handle giving the bad news?