“The Power of Leadership”

While reading an interesting book by Bil and Cher Holton, “The Managers Short Course”, I found the following section of interest. It is titled: Treat people fairly, not barely.

 

 
How fair and honest are you in evaluating your employees? Most managers like to believe they are unbiased and able to assess people’s strengths and weaknesses realistically. They really think they’re consistent in managing employees. We challenge you to evaluate yourself. On a sheet of paper, draw a vertical line down the center of the page. Now think of one of your difficult employees – one to whom you find it hard to give negative feedback, with whom you feel a little uncomfortable.

On the lefthand side of the paper, describe what it is about that employee that makes it difficult for you to deal with him or her. What are the characteristics, behaviors, or attitudes that make you uncomfortable?

Next, think of an employee with whom you are very comfortable. Even giving negative feedback is easy for you with this individual. On the right side of the paper, describe the characteristics, behaviors, and attitudes of the employee that make you comfortable.

Now comes the moment of truth. Are you ready? Look at both descriptions and ask yourself, “How am I like the description on the left side?” List any similarities on the lefthand side. Then ask the same question about the righthand descriptions and record your responses.

Notice anything interesting? If you’re like most managers, you’ll find you are much more similar to the righthand side descriptions than the left. Why? We tend to be more comfortable around people who are similar to us in beliefs, values, attitudes, and behaviors. Conversely, we tend to judge more harshly those who are different from us.

Use this information to analyze your treatment of employees, in terms of consistency and fairness. Take action to overcome any hidden biases you may be experiencing.

“Leading others takes courage. Knowing the right decision is usually easy. Making the right decision is hard.” … John C. Maxwell

Have A Good Day!

Russ
Performance Institute – A Global Leader in Human Capital Development
Global CEO Clubs Academy

Russ M. Miller, LLIF, CEO
Sunny Hong Zhang, Managing Partner – China
Shawn M. Miller, Managing Partner – USA