Managing people isn't easy. Even if you’re experienced, the way you’ve managed in the past may not work today. It requires extreme flexibility and adaptability.
I'm reminded of a fascinating video I saw of a mimic octopus. This interesting sea creature has the unique ability to mimic the physical likeness and movements of other sea animals like sea snakes, giant crabs, stingrays and jellyfish. A skilled adapter, it can change its body, color and motion to impersonate a predator of the animal threatening it.
The business world is filled with threatening "animals" and harsh conditions as well. Good management is needed to help others perform at their best in turbulent waters.
How do you respond to the challenge?
- Do you try to emulate other managers' styles?
Be careful. Some people are fortunate to have worked for managers who were ideal role models. Others, not so lucky.
New managers may try to emulate the only manager they’ve ever experienced — for better or worse. If you are stepping into a new role, let your own style shine. Help your team adjust if they're accustomed to a different style or approach. Don't feel pressure to "fill someone else's shoes." Fill yourself with confidence to wear your own pair, or go barefoot.
Sometimes organizations perpetuate the problem by creating an expectation that managers or leaders adhere to a standard "model." Their formulaic approach cripples the individuality of the person.
Action: Take the best you've seen in others and apply what makes sense for you. Don't try to be another person. People can see when you’re trying to be someone you’re not.
- Are you paying close enough attention to your environment?
Be aware. The mimic octopus has a large brain, but lacks hearing. Some managers are accustomed to using their power or status to achieve what they want. They’re business savvy, but blissfully unaware about what's really happening in their own organization.
One executive saw people busy at work and assumed all was well, but he couldn't sense the undercurrent of discontent below the surface, ready to bubble up.
Action: Be visible with your team. Show interest in their work. Let team members know you hear them. You don't need to get your arms involved in every matter. Simply acknowledge the issues.
- Are you courageous enough to take a stand?
Be bold. Be willing to speak out and stand up for what you believe in. The octopus peeps its eyes and head out from the ocean floor to survey the surroundings before venturing out.
Brave managers may see threatening conditions, but they don't retreat. At times, you have to jump in and make some waves. Communicate a difficult message. Make the tough decision.
Action: Identify one aspect of the business you feel strongly about. Something significant to the business (e.g., marketing approach, business strategy, process change, employee morale). Share your ideas with your boss or colleagues. Make your case. Lead change.
At the Top?
The higher your management position, the more difficult it is to get real feedback. People will mimic you.
They'll tend to agree with you more and challenge less. You’ll hear, "Yes, you're right. Good idea…" even when they're really thinking, "No, bad idea." You must work harder at helping others share their ideas and opinions without fear.
Mimicking may be helpful to a point, but the best managers think beyond survival mode and risk revealing their true colors, thoughts and ideas. They lead from their own identity.
Their flexibility is demonstrated by listening and responding to their team and their customers, not by regurgitating a company line or appearing to be something they’re really not.
Bottom line — Minimize the mimicking. Maximize your own management style!
ON THE LIGHTER SIDE
He who trims himself to suit everyone will soon whittle himself away. ~Raymond Hull
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About Gayle Lantz
Gayle Lantz is a leadership expert and president of WorkMatters, Inc., a consulting firm dedicated to helping executives think and work smarter.
She is author of the award-winning book Take the Bull by the Horns: The Busy Leader's Action Guide to Growing Your Business…and Yourself.
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