Be realistic, but upbeat. There are times when a dean really messes up. Acknowledge when you err. It may startle your faculty at first, but it will enhance your legitimacy for the times you will need it. Build a honeymoon.
Many people talk about the honeymoon a new dean enjoys.
I have always thought that a honeymoon was something you earned by building the confidence of your faculty in your leadership. The honeymoon need not end. For many people, the hardest part of the dean s job is development. This is hard work. Some development prospects are difficult people.