An Elementary Brief_Management Ep2

It's all about TRUST

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Continuing from my previous article on the mission and vision of top executives, as well as the gap between their aspirations and the experiences of ordinary employees, I would like to delve into the dilemma of cultivating trust when nurturing talented employees.

Never suspect the man you use and never use the man you suspect

Management is an intricate field that combines theory with the practicality of personal experiences and characteristics. Being a successful boss requires more than just knowledge; it demands qualities such as courage and trust. However, trusting others is not always an easy task. I recall a conversation with an executive where I encouraged him to place more trust in his employees and minimize his suspicions. In response, he admitted that he found it difficult to determine who to trust.

In many ways, being a good boss is akin to being a parent. Like parents who worry about their children, bosses often concern themselves about their employees' performance, whether it's done perfectly or if they can handle client A perfectly. While bosses desire to see their employees grow as rapidly as possible, they may struggle to relinquish control and allow them to make mistakes or accomplish tasks in their way. Learning to let go and trust others is an ongoing challenge. When bosses are unable to trust their employees, it often stems from two common reasons:

1. Doubts about their own abilities: Bosses may lack confidence in their own vision and judgment. However, it is crucial for them to believe in their capabilities and make well-informed decisions. When dealing with talented employees, bosses should recognize their potential and invest in their growth and development.

2. A desire for control: Some bosses are strongly inclined to exert control over every aspect of the company. This desire for dominance and high performance can hinder the cultivation of trust. While feeling a strong sense of responsibility is natural, bosses must balance control and empowerment. Trusting employees with duties and giving them autonomy to explore their capabilities fosters their growth and success.

Returning to the parenting analogy, we often observe that parents who trust their children's abilities and provide them with freedom, resources, and a broad vision tend to raise well-rounded and talented individuals. Similarly, top executives face challenges when granting trust to gifted employees. Bosses must navigate crucial decisions when determining how much trust to offer, how to provide support, and what resources to allocate. Relying solely on oneself and outsourcing tasks may seem more manageable, but it limits the company's potential for growth and innovation.

Since my destination is approaching once again, I'd better stop typing.

Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts.