Employees across the globe are disillusioned, de-motivated and disengaged—and many of them are thinking, “If I were the leader, things would be different.” Maybe so, but let’s investigate what your manager might have to say:
“My job is tougher than you think.” You might think your manager has it made. After all, he or she has a title you don’t have, authority you think you want and a bigger paycheck than you do. Cushy job, right? Maybe you would think differently if you considered that your manager has to deal with bigger problems than you do, has to try to please more people than you do and probably stays awake some nights worrying about work issues you don’t have to give a moment’s thought to.
“You have to worry about you—I have to worry about everyone.” If you’re having trouble at work and your performance is suffering, your manager is going to expect you to turn it around. That’s not always easy, but at least you’re only dealing with one person—you. Your manager might be dealing with several faltering team members at once—and she probably isn’t getting a lot of help from her manager. After all, her supervisor is likely to tell her, “That’s what I hired you for—you are up to the task, aren’t you?”
“I wish I had more support and training to do my job.” Unfortunately, few managers get what they need in terms of management training. Want to know the first department budget that is slashed in tough times? That would be the training budget.
“Yes, I do have favorites—I’m only human.” Can you really blame your manager for liking those who are easy to get along with, do great work, have a positive attitude and are willing to go the extra mile? But don’t be concerned—if you want your manager’s favor, it’s not rocket science. Do great work, be easy to get along with and you’ll be golden.
– Alan Allard, Creator of Enlightened Happiness. For more from Alan, sign up for his newsletter at alanallard.com.
