One of the hardest challenges for new managers is inheriting a team you didn’t choose. Maybe you were promoted, or maybe you were dropped into a group with personalities and dynamics already in motion. Either way, it can feel awkward, overwhelming, and even unfair. Here’s the truth: great leaders rarely get to pick their teams. Instead, they earn trust, set expectations, and shape culture from the inside out. Here are 3 quick steps to start leading a team you didn’t choose: 1. Listen before you lead. Spend the first two weeks asking open-ended questions like, “What’s working well here? What would you change?” 2. Look for influencers. Every team has “silent leaders” who set the tone. Earn their trust, and others will follow. 3. Set small wins. Pick one visible problem you can fix quickly with the team. It shows you’re invested in making their lives easier. 👉 In our Skool community, I dive deeper into how to reset culture and build buy-in as a new manager. But here in the feed, I want to hear from you: Question for you: What’s been the hardest part of leading a team you didn’t pick? Drop your experience below — I’ll reply with 1 practical strategy for your situation.

Want to lead with more confidence, even if you still feel like an imposter? I created a simple guide: 5 Daily Habits of a Servant Leader. Try one habit this week. Come back and share how it went in the comments.