I’m the leader of a big organization. I don’t work side by side with each of my employees each day – it’s not possible because there are too many employees. When it comes time for picking the next leader, or for making changes of any kind, what do I rely on most? – What other employees say about that person.
Sure I screen the opinions through the biases I think the opinion giver has, but when you hear from many employees that “this guy is trouble” or “this girl is great” – then I know what is really happening when I’m not around.
I expect it’s like this in many places. What co-workers say about you, your reputation at work, is important to you.
What do your co-workers say about you?
Although reputation is important, I disagree that important decisions should be made based on others opinions. One person’s opinion can change the opinion of an entire department or even more. Some people still live in a “playground mindset”. Remember when you played backyard sports as a kid? There was always one person who did things a little better than everyone else. He made more baskets, so he took more shots…. ran the ball more, because he could gain more yards and score more touchdowns. This made the team win, but he was considered cocky. Not a team player. In the real world when success depends on ability, everyone needs a Lebron James or an Emmitt Smith. Be careful not to make decisions based on a popularity contest.
Hey Larry: Every now and then I print a favorite Think Daily and tape it to my office door. I like this one, I totally understand the message you are giving and understand the importance of working thru the biases etc. I loved it! Have a great day–
Some people put an act on for the boss. But when all their co-workers are telling you differently…..that’s what I mean.
– Larry