The product is perfect. Issues are minor. Turnover rates are acceptable.
Everything is fine.
When we know, that isn't true.
A positive outlook is crucial to your business. So, how do more direct, straightforward personalities facilitate the desired perception when problems require solving? A fine line exists between an overtly positive culture and an environment where issues go unaddressed for fear of reprisal.
Communication.
How we communicate is often more important than why.
Nancy is new. She immediately finds a better way to perform an old task.
(Poor) 1. Nancy runs to her boss Sara and lets her know the old way is terrible, cost-prohibited, and has a business case for a much better process. Nancy has excellent intentions and is disappointed when her manager's reaction is poor. Her supervisor is a 14-year associate. The old way was under her purview. Nancy may be correct, but her manager now sees her as an upstart invading her space.
(Better) 2. Nancy runs to her boss and tells her she has found a process she'd like her input on. Stating she's new and may not be fully aware of the department's history, she potentially knows where the company might improve and save. Nancy may be correct and Sara, looking to empower her associates, tells Nancy to put something on her calendar and that she'd love to help her with her business case.
If the conversation is well thought out, you can still inform the emperor that he has no clothes.
Negative narratives require the right angle.
Alternatively, keeping your chin up all the time may block you from seeing where you are going.
The right conversational mix lies in preparation and awareness.
Striking the right tone is crucial in management's perception of you.
Better business cases for management with BackPocketCIO. www.WhosInYourBackPocket.com
Comments