When dealing with former colleagues, the same applies as elsewhere: seek a high-level balance between performance climate and human interaction. Make it clear that you have been selected as a leader, not one of your colleagues. Embrace your new role immediately and avoid any fraternization. Your colleagues will benefit more from a good boss than from a buddy with weak leadership. Your environment will quickly get used to your new role and will appreciate you as a leader.
Let suitable employees help you in your leadership role. By doing so, you will even show your appreciation to them. If you have doubts about leadership issues, ask your supervisor, the management or the chairman of the works council for help. Challenge your employees, even – and especially – if they are former colleagues.