Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Heads-Up

I don't think Jack wanted to hear about your proposed changes to his project during the meeting.


You mean because he's not open to any changes?


No. Because he felt ambushed. You should have given him a call ahead of time.


I didn't have time to do that.


Spare me the sad story. You had enough time. You just didn't want to do it.


That may be true. But Jack's a big boy. He should have been able to handle some opposition.


Oh, he can. But he'll also remember how you decided to shift from supporter to adversary at a time that could have caused maximum embarrassment. It's a question of respect.


I can't worry about Jack's feelings. We've got a job to do.


I know. Only the thing is, you see, worrying about Jack's feelings is part of that job. At least it is if you want to be effective.


2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Relationships. How difficult at work to establish and how important to maintain. Once you start to orbit in management circles, every comment must be weighed and every silence has consequenses. Even when you resolve to discuss an issue with someone, the method you choose is also important. During a meeting? Over a friendly lunch?

It's a topic which requires contant reflection and improvement. Thank you for highlighting it.

Michael Wade said...

Pawnking,

Thanks! I posted this after witnessing some recent examples of this type of behavior from people who should know better. Rather surprising.