“Why won’t they do what I say?”

People hate being told what to do, that's why.

“But I’m the boss!”

Well, coercion clearly isn’t working the way you’d hoped.

If authority is the only tool you have, you’re a bully, not a leader.

“Why do I have to tell them how to do every little thing?”

Because you’ve trained them to do that.

“But if I don’t, then nothing will get done!”

And if they make any decisions, you’ll swoop in and override them anyway.

If control is the only tool you have, expect no initiative from those in your care.

“Why won’t they do the right thing?”

Because you’re avoiding conflict.

“I don’t want to tell them what to do!”

If you don’t tell them the truth, it won’t matter.

Letting them meander off a cliff is neglect, not leadership.

Authoritarians: You can lead without authority.

Micromanagers: You can lead without control.

Cool bosses: You can share hard truths without turning into the bad guy (promise).

Curious how? (Hint).

Hey {{first_name | there}}! What about you?

If you’re not an authoritarian, micromanager, or cool boss, what would you write about yourself? We’re curious!

Ben and David
StrategyTeaming.com