Who’s The Boss?

This topic strikes me as I attended my recent church sermon. There is something I would like to talk about on the HR perspective.

I was on a project on expanding the company regionally.  I gave out instructions and the manager in my team conveniently ignores it.  I blew my top and got the HR to talk to her, I wanted to fire her but did not as we needed her to be on the project team.  Now, who is the boss?  Bosses nowadays are faced with similar situations or on other occasions, subordinates will question their bosses’ decision without offering constructive views. 

This also made me reflect on myself as a subordinate many years ago.  I was equally arrogant or worst.  My bosses were tolerant because I did my homework and usually am on the right track.  Things would have run more smoothly with the support of the management than fighting the battle alone.  I think I would have done it better if given another chance – I should explain my decision and how I arrive on it.

In another occasion, I overheard a boss complaining, “My guys are always so negative!  Have not even started, they expected it to fail.  They did not explore other options and refuse to start etc”.  Actually, the staffs have not started on the project as they were unsure and it was perceived by the boss as “refuse to start”.

Many a times, an employee does not see what the boss sees or he will not be an employee – REMEMBER THIS!  For the employee, you have to trust that the boss is going into the right direction.  If you have other thoughts, share it and DO YOUR RESEARCH.  If you just “FEEL” or “DON’T THINK IT IS RIGHT”, just follow the instructions after giving your views.  As for bosses, sometimes employees delay their work because they do not know “HOW TO START”.  A little explanation may help, but if they don’t understand even after explaining, set down clear instructions or SOP (standard operational procedures) for them to follow.

No matter what, the boss is the boss, due respect must be given.  Instruction is meant to be followed but if you think otherwise, discuss your views and provide alternative solutions.  Be constructive in your views. No employee is indispensable, he may be tolerant now, but the question is for how long? Similarly, no boss is also indispensable, there are other jobs out there waiting for your capable staff.