Some supervisors think they know it all. This is a problem at two levels: the macro and the micro.
At the macro level, they fail to realize that everyone has a tendency to build self-containing systems and theories. They build a theory that works well enough and which they think represents reality. The problem is that in many cases it really doesn't represent the entire picture. I’ve noted that we tend to force facts that don’t mesh with our representation of reality to comply with our theory while it should be the way round. It is much easier that way! What ends up happening is lack of communication with your people because you insist on your theory instead of the reality that they know to be true. A leader has to be teachable. The prophet was so humble that he didn’t mind learning from people of other faiths, subordinates, or admitting the truth even if it came from the devil! Learn to admit to yourself and others that you don’t know everything, learn, and be teachable. But also have the courage to know when you are right and act upon what you know. I know what you're thinking! And yes, it is never easy! Just keep listening to everybody, including to yourself, to try to understand the complete picture as best as possible. And always ask Allah's guidance.
From the micro level, they fail to realize that any employee has more insight and knowledge of the day-to-day details. These details dictate how he reacts and adjusts his tactics to achieve the overarching strategy or goal that the organization has set. When a leader starts micro managing his people by telling them what they should and shouldn't do, they will tend do what he wants regardless of the facts on the ground and as a consequence, results will suffer. Remember, people are intelligent and even if they make a mistake, they are smart enough to correct it themselves even they don't tell you about it. Micro managing people deprives the organization from this. So, give feedback, but also give your people space to breathe, think, and adjust for them selves.
A few years ago I read a book called Why Smart Executives Fail. It was enlightening in so much as it highlighted how intelligent execs with strong track records didn’t do well in their new jobs. I can’t remember the details of the book, but what stuck with me is the fact that any leader has to be humble and willing to learn. He has to realize that he is just one person with very limited powers. His real strength lies in his people and their collective knowledge and strength. Of course, a leader also has to have knowledge; that is pivotal. But that knowledge is only a flashlight, he needs the collective light of all his people to see the whole picture.
Posted via email from Khalid's Stream
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