How to toughen up at work!

[SLJ161086]

Hi all, hoping for some advice. I'm newly in a leadership role (not very senior but high up enough) and seem to be finding to be seen as an emotional punchbag for complaints. I deal with colleagues so not clients or third party provider but seem to be viewed as a "service". Two stakeholders in particular are always on my back about poor processes and the way my department works. I am really struggling with pushing back on them. Can anyone offer advice on how to have difficult conversations with people more senior? I don't want to be a yes man/woman, I want to make changes but also be assertive and push back. I wish I could do it!

Say something like that sounds interesting, how do you suggest we fix it, then ask them to put it in an email to you
They may have a point, they may not but that's part of being a leader

Totally agree with PP, it seems to be human nature to go to 'the person' with complaints and not offer up any solution. I would also ask them to come up with some solutions and send to you - you'll soon find people don't view them as such big problems when they're asked to contribute!

You may find it easier to deal with if you are not tired (so a good night's sleep at all times helps), and agree with the response to ask for their suggestions.