Three Lessons Learned to Help You Not to Get Crushed
AUTHOR Ibrahim Albuainain - JUNE 2024
Bearing the burden of unsupportive senior management can be very challenging. Some of us might have heard about the "trickle-down effect" and how the top leadership shapes the culture and performance of an organization. Having supportive senior management is fundamental and can lead to a motivated and thriving workforce. But on the other hand, when senior management is unsupportive, it puts even the most resilient employees to the test. If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to have strategies in place to not just survive but thrive. In this article, I’m going to share three pieces of advice which could help you if you are experiencing a similar situation.
01. Highlighting Concerns in a Constructive Way
It's natural to feel hesitant about speaking up when you're dealing with unsupportive senior management, especially when you fear the backlash that might follow. But staying silent isn't an option if you want to foster a healthier work environment. It’s important to stay positive and raise concerns objectively.
Data is key in these situations. Therefore, use data and specific examples to back up your points. This will show that your concerns are valid but also that you're proactive and focused on finding solutions.
To give you some examples, if you're facing unrealistic deadlines, present the case by highlighting the reasons such as lack of resources and the importance of delivering quality work along with the potential risks involved if such unrealistic deadlines are to be met. Always propose possible solutions along with the problems. This shows that you're not just complaining but thinking critically and genuinely invested in the success of the organization.
02. Avoid the Trap of Trying to Impress
The second piece of advice that I can give would be “STOP TRYING TO IMPRESS”. Some employees fall into the trap of constantly trying to impress senior management, hoping it will get them the support they need or put them in a privileged position. However, this strategy often backfires and leads to burnout, frustration, and disappointment.
Instead of wasting your energy on superficial attempts to gain approval, focus on doing your job well. Let your excellence speak for itself. Maintain professionalism, get your tasks done, and let your work be a testament to your abilities. Remember, impressing senior management should never come at the cost of your well-being or ethical standards.
Moreover, trying too hard to impress can set unrealistic expectations and create a cycle where you're constantly trying to outdo yourself just to maintain senior management's recognition. This is unsustainable in the long run and can cause significant stress and job dissatisfaction.
03. Document is the Foundation
It's crucial to protect yourself by meticulously documenting everything. This includes emails, meeting minutes, project files, and any interactions that you think you might need in the future as evidence.
Documentation serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it provides a clear record which you can refer to in case of disputes or misunderstandings. This can be invaluable during performance reviews, conflicts, or when there are people pointing fingers at defenseless employees.
Secondly, detailed documentation can help you identify patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. For instance, if you notice recurring delays due to last-minute approvals from management, you can use your records to demonstrate this pattern and how it affects performance and deliverables.
Lastly, documentation functions as a shield, if you ever need to escalate issues to higher authorities or external bodies. It ensures that you have solid evidence to support your case.
Key Takeaways
Dealing with unsupportive senior management can be one of the most challenging aspects of a professional career. However, by highlighting concerns constructively, avoiding the trap of trying to impress, and documenting everything meticulously, you can navigate this difficult terrain more effectively. These strategies not only help in surviving the current situation but also in maintaining your professional integrity and personal well-being. Remember, while senior management plays a significant role in shaping the workplace environment, your response to these challenges can define your career trajectory and personal growth. Stay resilient, stay professional, and most importantly, stay true to yourself.
Comments