Log in to become a member of Mack Chapman's Fan Club!
Far too often I have heard managers state to their subordinates the reason they are assigned a particular task, project, or activity is based on company policies, procedures or protocol. This type of response in effect, tells an employee that their manager is clueless or worse yet, a tyrant that prefers people to do what he or she says with no questions asked. I do understand, as a manager that there are times when they are bogged down with the minutia of their work; that time does not permit them to give a full explanation. When this occurs, it is far more advantageous to the manager to tell the employee that I beat you to get this accomplished now and I promise I will fill you in with the details, time permitting.
Today's sophisticated workforce demands to know how and why they fit into the overall company strategy. Communicating how employees fit into the entire scheme of things shows that the company wants, needs, and values the employee. Many managers that I know are extremely bright, if not brilliant individuals.However, far too many are more focused on the living to the letter of the law with company policies, procedures, and protocols. Examining a company's policy, procedure, and protocol in a Socratic manner one would come to the conclusion that the sole purpose is to make the company profitable. Understanding that everything an organization places on paper with regards to its policies and procedures becomes an organic document; designed to help the organization reach its strategic goals.
Why do so many managers get caught up in the technicality of these procedures and policies versus understanding their subordinates’ emotional needs? Veteran managers and neophytes alike seem to be more comfortable with the rules and regulations rather than people.The problem with this scenario is that I have yet to know a successful manager that focused primarily on policies and procedures.People and only people are the key to every manager’s success.In order to get people to perform what managers desire them to do, they need to establish an effective relationship.
Managers that are able to sell a vision to their subordinates increase their ability exponentially to deliver successful outcomes through their workers.In order to sell a vision to subordinates there must be an inherent understanding of how the benefits will ultimately affect the subordinates in a positive way.
Mack Chapman is an entrepreneur, consultant, noted public speaker, and works for a major private university. He has a passion for inspiring and challenging organizations and individuals reach their full potential by creating an environment of success through collaboration and team work. Mr. Chapman can be reached at mackchap@yahoo.com
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
