Just a few words of advice to any new supervisors out there who may be reading this post. Those two symbols of authority that you wear on your collar are kind of like a double edged sword. They have a sharp edge on one side which can be very useful, but there is a second sharp edge on the back side which can hurt you if you are not careful.
Try to use terms like "because I'm the captain" very, very sparingly. Especially when dealing with trivial matters such as dinner selection, radio station settings and television matters. "Because I am the captain" tells the world and your crew that there is no logical or rational reason for your decision and that you must resort to procedural authority to impose your will.
If you should use the term "because I'm the captain" in a reckless manner, word will get out rather quickly and people will use the event to confirm any doubts they may have had about your leadership ability or your people handling skills. That opens another can of worms.
Although it's too late for you Captain Autocrat, these words may keep some other youngish captain from making a similar, dumb move.
Thanks for reading,
Schmoe
There will always be good bosses and bad bosses.
ReplyDeleteHappy Valentines Day Capt! <3
Dear Captain Schmoe,
ReplyDeleteThis post really says it all.
Ann T.
The good officer never has to remind anyone that he is the boss. The great ones have everyone going out of their way to do things the officer's way out of respect and appreciation for him/her as a leader.
ReplyDeleteDang. Maybe I should have read this prior to my assistant quest. "No eye contact while you hold my tiara" might have gone better with an explanation besides "I because 'm the boss".
ReplyDelete