A talk by Tessa Lindqvist
From Peer to Boss: The First Honest Conversation
Quoted per event · Lunch-and-learn, 45 minutes, or a half-day workshop with practice
What it covers
Moving from colleague to manager changes the relationship overnight, even when nobody mentions it. This session looks at the conversation that most new managers delay: the first one-to-one with someone who used to be a peer. Using a simple structure of acknowledging the change, agreeing how you will work, and asking what the other person needs, participants plan and rehearse the conversation in pairs. Tessa draws on her own coaching practice and on her years of running teams.
What people take away
- A three-part structure for the first one-to-one.
- Language for the difficult moments, such as friendship, confidences and fairness.
- A short plan for the first four weeks.
Illustrative, AI-generated
For organisers
- Before
- A one-page audience brief
- After
- A one-page summary for participants and a short note for the organiser on what came up
- Confidentiality
- Nothing said by participants is reported back by name
Questions from organisers
How far ahead should we book?
Six to eight weeks is comfortable. Shorter notice is sometimes possible; ask on the form.
Can you tailor a talk to our sector?
Tessa can adapt the examples and language. She does not claim sector expertise she does not have, so you will see the framing of the talk before it is delivered.
Do you take questions?
Yes. Talks keep a third of the time for questions and discussion.
Is travel included?
Within central London, yes. Elsewhere, travel and any overnight stay are added to the quote at cost.
The writing behind it
Other talks
Tell Tessa the date, the audience and how long you would like.
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