What do I need to do if my team members are against me?

In the case where your team members turn against you, it is best to deal with the issue immediately. Here are things you need to do when you realize your team members are against you.

Recognize the problem: you need to first accept that it has happened, pinpoint the problem and what triggered their reactions. This will make it easier for you to put out the flames before it gets out of hand.

Address the issue: if you have recognized the problem, this is the next line of action. Get all members of the team together; put the issue on the table. If there’s something you have done to cause the problem, take responsibility for it. Discuss the issue and resolve it. This time is also a good time to encourage open communication in the team.

After the issue has been resolved, encourage everyone to focus on the goal and vision of the team in order to build a stronger team which will help increase your productivity as a team.

This happens sometimes even when a person has done nothing to deserve it, for intance when a popular team member leaves and you are the replacement. Firstly, consider whether any actions you have made have caused this opposition, or whether your manner has offended team members. In a meeting, without getting angry, look around people and state openly that you are aware that the team feels oppositional towards you and invite them to explain how things could be better.

Do this in a friendly and cooperative way. If someone broaches a suggestion about what you have done that has upset them, do not brush it away or angrily deny it. Listen. Thank them for having the courtesy of making a suggestion.

If you have no answer, play for time. say you have understood what they've said, you don't think this is the way you see it but you are going to go away and think about it. The main thing is to find the cause of the opposition.

Ask the team for the cause. Only when matters are in the open can you, and hopefully they, begin to repair the relationship. You all have to do this for the sake of the work in hand, something you perhaps have to say around the table.