Very few people, if they’re honest, enjoy going to work every day in an environment filled with distrust, political maneuvering, and so many of the other ugly things that characterize too many groups and organizations. And most folks, if you ask them, would say they wish things were different where they work. In fact, a recent Gallup poll suggests that up to 77% of individuals said they were miserable in their jobs.
So people work places where they dislike the culture. And it’s not just some people. It’s a lot of people.
Those same people, unless they’re gluttons for punishment, wish it were different. Your own team isn’t immune from this.
(Do you see the opportunity yet?)
They need leaders. They need people to lead them where they already want to go. It’s not like you’d be leading them toward some undesirable state of affairs. On the contrary, you’d be leading them toward a trusting, non-political, honest, healthy, passionate culture, which is exactly what most people want anyway. So if so many people want this, why don’t most people find themselves in this type of atmosphere? What’s missing?
Easy. Leaders. They need people with a certain angst about their environments, coupled with the desire, drive, and courage to do something to make a difference. They need you.
Nice and to the point. Organizations need their leaders to demonstrate and reward the behavior they desire in their organization. Typically the political maneuvering and distrust in organizations are fueled by what has been seen and accepted from the top down.
Great stuff, Matt! There is a difference between managing and leading. Understanding that fact is critical to success.
Agreed!
Nice piece. Employees need to be managed as people and individuals, and not simply feel like tools.