|
Are You Working for Zeus?
The truest characters of ignorance are vanity and pride and arrogance.
I bet most of us have met someone, or worse yet, worked for someone who feels they have all of the answers. These "god-like" bosses are so sure of themselves that they often compare an animal to the brains of their employees. How does someone get to the point in their life when they feel superior to all other human beings?
Well, I am not a psychologist but I do believe that life has yet to humble these "know-it-alls". I truly believe that life has a way of knocking us down a few pegs through broken relationships, disease, death of loved ones or addictions. It is difficult to escape any of these life experiences as we age but somehow there are a rare few that have not experienced them or have yet to experience them. Another reason could be insecurity that makes these bosses want to "puff-up" their egos.
What is so odd about all of this is that despite their poor leadership, they can succeed financially....for a while. If an organization has the right product for the market at the right price, even an arrogant leader can make money in the short term. It is the long term where they usually suffer.
So, how do you possibly work with someone who is so superior, in their own mind, that no one can measure up?
- Wait it out. If you happen to have a buffer boss between you and Zeus, you may outlast him or her.
- Encourage Zeus to conduct an annual employee survey to take the temperature of the culture. Now you may be thinking right now, why would an arrogant boss care about the company culture? Well, you could appeal to their ego by telling them that they may get some great affirmative feedback on their leadership.... knowing that this most likely will not happen and the poor results will cause them to take a humility pill.
- Seek out Zeus's trusted confidante to encourage them to let the boss know how he or she comes across and impacts morale.
- Give your two week notice after you have found that ideal boss to work for and received an offer for employment. This may be the most practical solution because the other options require a great deal of luck and chance that this person will be hit by a bolt of lightening and finally see the leadership light.
Question:
Do you work for someone who is so brilliant you have to wear shades?
Call to Action:
Dust off that resume or take a patience pill, because unless you are able to find a new career, you will be playing the waiting game for a long time and you deserve better.
| 
