GreyGoose
How can you be an authentic manager while disagreeing with the directions coming from leadership?
4
you don't have to agree, but it's a disservice to those under your management if you "complain down the chain". Morale killer for sure, and it doesn't really help anything. I would seek to understand the "why" from leadership so that you can better communicate the strategy down the chain as necessary. And above all else, own it. So instead of "this shitty plan is coming from higher up, and I don't like it any more than you do" say something like "hey this is the situation and here's the plan. This is why we're going this direction and this is what it means for you. Let me know your feedback or if you have any questions." Something like that.
There's a good parable sorta article called Damn Exec you should check out. It's from a military perspective, but it has tons of business parallels.
There's a good parable sorta article called Damn Exec you should check out. It's from a military perspective, but it has tons of business parallels.
First, seek to understand. Why is this the new direction? What's the purpose behind it? How will my team benefit? And if you disagree (and by disagree, meaning you think it will negatively impact your people and the company,) I'd be honest with your team. While it may be painful at first, there are potential long term benefits, x, y and z...and focus on how it could benefit them.
100% agree with the "seek the why" part. That's crucial. From there, you control the message to your team. But owning it at the lower levels will help mitigate morale damage.
If you are in a company where you cannot do this, you simply cannot do this. Must feel terrible to be in that position and try your best not to be seen as a complete ass-hat by your people.
Oh man, yes! This! I need help with this as well.
Lots of that going on these days, you are definitely not alone. Chances are, it's not ideal for anyone above you either. We're all doing more with less, but it beats the alternative.
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