Let’s face it; there are a lot of crap managers out there. Which might cause you to think: How is that possible given all the available information about leadership, culture, engagement, and so on?
I know, it’s bewildering. But if I had to guess, I’d say that crap managers don’t realize they are crap managers. So to make sure we’re all on the same page, here’s how you can tell if you’re a crap manager:
- You blame others when things go wrong. After all, they’re the ones responsible for doing the work. You’re just managing them.
- You don’t feel compelled to follow the standards and procedures you’ve set for them. Your job is to get results, however you see fit. Besides, it’s not against the law when you are the law.
- You don’t waste time communicating expectations. You wouldn’t have hired them if they weren’t capable. They should know.
- You seize credit for successes. If the results didn’t happen because of you, then why would they need you?
- You conspicuously enjoy the perks of your position. For one, you let them put in the extra hours. You’ve already paid your dues.
- You never let them outshine you. It could undermine your authority.
- You discourage any talk of personal issues. You’re running a business, not a personal well-being retreat. They should leave their personal issues at home.
Well, how do you stack up as a manager? A little crappy? A lot crappy? Total crap?
Don’t worry, you can change. Unless, of course, you possess that one, rock-solid trait common to all crappy managers: The need to appear infallible. A need that far exceeds any desire to learn, grow, and actually become more effective.
Your thoughts?
Michael
