Pushed Around

There are bosses who are seemingly impervious;   the perception is that they don't care what anyone thinks or feels.    They are unapproachable;  team members consequently wouldn't even think about talking to this individual about their workplace concerns.

And then there are leaders who truly care about the workplace and the members of their teams.  They make it clear that they have an open door and that they are willing to listen.    In certain instances, these people are taken advantage of.   Team members will absolve themselves of any personal responsibility and leave it to the leader to solve everything.        The leader spends endless hours listening to endless whining;   the leader at this point cannot do anything right because the team members expects the leader to solve all the problems of the world and that obviously isn't happening.

In other words, the well-intended leader is pushed around.

So, how do we work this balance of listening and caring without being taken advantage of?  Some thoughts:

How strong is our core?  Are we certain of what we believe in?  Do those beliefs radiate;  do they communicate themselves through not only our communication but also our actions?  This is very important because team members trust leaders with these qualities;  team members will try to emulate these leaders, not push them around.

Has our business focus been made clear to all?  Are team members aware of our daily and long-term expectations?   Professional focus transcends a whole lot of pettiness, provided. . .

Is everyone on board?   Have they bought in?  Are they following the direction the leader is leading?   This is what makes entities hum if not sing. . .the harmony brought about by a strongly believed common purpose.

The term "servant leader" is bandied about often.  As leaders we are definitely here to support, grow, nurture and enable our teams to do their best.   We should be always present to listen and support.  If we are pushed around, we are disabled from supporting our teams and creating focus;  we become quicksand.   But, if we personally and professionally exhibit a strong foundation and belief structure that supports the workforce, we truly lead.

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My book "Courageous Questions, Confident Leaders" is available on Amazon Kindle.