Upon promotion to administrator in a well-running organization, what is the most appropriate initial approach to gain goodwill?

• A. Instill in each employee an idea of what true efficiency is
• B. Ask each employee confidentially what was wrong with the previous administration
• C. Continue the policies of your predecessor, gradually introducing needed changes
• D. Immediately revamp the entire department

Answer: (C)

When you take over in a well-functioning department, the priority is to preserve stability and show respect for what’s already working. Maintaining the existing policies and procedures sets a trustworthy baseline and signals that you value the staff’s routines and the organization’s established practices. From there, you can introduce needed changes gradually as you learn more, gather feedback, and confirm what actually improves outcomes. This approach helps you build goodwill by being a careful, thoughtful steward rather than a disruptor.

Rushing to redefine efficiency across the board can unsettle operations and lower morale, which undercuts goodwill. Asking staff privately what was wrong with the previous administration can create a sense of undermining leadership and foster cynicism if not handled with clear purpose and results. A full, immediate overhaul is even more disruptive and risks alienating people who are accustomed to the current system. Start with continuity, then implement measured changes that are well-communicated and evidence-based.