I learned a long time ago that no one is perfect. However, I continue to be amazed when ineffective people are promoted to high levels of organizations and empowered to make decisions that impact thousands of people. These ineffective people are typically highly educated and no spring chickens. They should have learned effective leadership skills along the way, right? One would think.
Here are 9 signs that your boss is an ineffective leader:
- You were hired more than three months ago, and your boss has never discussed expectations, performance outcomes or the organization’s core values with you.
- You were hired several months ago, and your boss has never met with you to discuss your progress.
- You have attempted to tell your boss about the mess you inherited and are cleaning up, but she blows you off.
- Your boss bullies employees and does so publicly.
- You have been employed for six months and have accomplished more in that time than your predecessor did in several years. However, you can count on one hand – with several fingers left over – how many times your boss has said “great job” or “thank you.”
- Your boss starts the process to terminate one of your direct reports – without your knowledge.
- Your boss badmouths you to others but “purrs like a kitten” when she’s in your face.
- Your boss mistreats high-performance employees but treats low-performing employees with kid gloves.
- Your boss makes promises to others that violate policies and procedures and leaves it to you to “clean up” the ensuing mess.
If your boss exhibits any of this behavior, hopefully you can have a frank discussion about your concerns and come to a satisfactory resolution. Remember that you aren’t looking for perfection but respect.
Maybe your boss is respectful and cares about your career but wastes your time. I’ll share 11 more signs with you next week.
Does any of this sound familiar to you? Can you add to this list? Please do!
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