I was just hired into a new company and given a top management position. My first day did not go so well and neither my second. Lower management and employees resent me, they don't want to help me in this transition, ignore me and are even laughing behind my back ( with me right there of course) when I ask a question. I am in a training period and they are all very upset I was hired to start at the top when they feel they should be promoted. I understand they are upset and I am very understanding and easy to get along with but also feel I deserve a certain amount of respect as I would surely give them in return. Besides, these are the same individuals who may end up permanantly working under me and being on my team, after my training. I have kept my composure, being very pleasant and cheery and trying to act like it isn't bothering me. I don't want this to be so stressful because I have a lot of learning to do and also realize the company hired me for a good reason, knowing I will be a great asset. I am wondering if this will stop eventually as I gain more knowledge or get worse? A friend of mine say's I should come back at them with a remark when they are nasty but I feel that is getting off on the wrong foot. I also feel that being passive is not the correct way either because they will in turn run over me. Any suggestions?