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Managing up: Bosses need to be motivated too
Daryl F. Zanuck was a famed movie producer of the ’50s and ’60s. He was known for demanding input and perspective from his team. His most renowned saying was, “Don’t say yes until I’m finished talking!”
For years, I facilitated a 12-week leadership course involving selected key people from various companies. Ideally, the best strategy was to start with the top leadership of the company and work down through the ranks. There were occasional exceptions to this strategy. Here is one I will never forget:
Carl was president of a manufacturing firm employing 500 people. He did not want to involve himself personally in the training. When approached, he always said he was “too busy”. For years, I kept nudging him – all to no avail. He wasn’t budging.
One day a manager of his enrolled in the course approached me in class. He asked me two direct questions: “Has our president taken this class?” “No”, I replied. “Why?” he asked. “I suggest you ask him”, I responded.
The next day I received a phone call from the president: He said, “Bob is in my office has me in a hammerlock, and says he won’t let go until I enroll in the training.” Bob enrolled and attended every session with a good attitude. Upon graduation, he said, “this is some of the best business training I have had. I am so glad Bob forced the issue. He knew it would be good for the company”
Here is what intrigues me about this story: Over a period of 10 years, there must have been literally dozens of people attending the classes. Bob was the first who had the courage to challenge his boss. Not only did it help Carl, by taking the lead, Bob gained respect and a deeper level of appreciation from Carl.
Think of your situation: In addition to your own professional development, is there an opportunity for growth for someone you report to? If so, think about how you could approach that person in a way that puts the spotlight on the company benefit of your suggestion?