I’ve recently stepped into a leadership role in January to a very fragmented and broken team and started running team meetings. My line manager doesn’t attend them all — but when she knows I’ll be pushing deadlines or holding people accountable, she suddenly shows up.
She then repeats things I’ve already said, just phrased differently, as if it’s her point. It’s subtle but consistent. She also steps in with “solutions” that override what I’ve already suggested, even though mine are reasonable.
It’s always framed as “support,” but I’m starting to feel like I’m being watched or handled — like I can’t be trusted to lead without her hovering nearby.
There’s been some previous tension in the team, so maybe she’s trying to avoid conflict. But it’s getting frustrating and feels like I’m not being allowed to own my role properly.
today we were discussing the idea of the schedule for next year, and every few seconds she’d chime in on what I was saying. It’s like what I’m saying just isn’t enough.
Is this just normal when you’re new-ish in leadership?