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You are on stage M/s Top Management

One of the best tips I got in a crass "non-management" style was from a first generation successful entrepreneur when we got talking about clean ups required in organisations.

His advise was "all clean up has to start from the highest point, even at homes..".

How true!

Now look at the response to the current crisis by the top.

- The 3 senior most management looking for bailout of their respective companies flew in personal jets

- Immediately after the bailout package running in tens of billions, an exclusive overseas golf party lasting many days with spouses, helicopters and gifts in line. Expenses calculated at about $ 1.5 millions

- Closer home in India, happened to be meeting some top guys (all men incidentally). Cosy controls - only mineral water on table for self and guests, imported juices and soft drinks, entertainment at top restaurants.

- Heard at the airport "What non sense! How can you send me this car? Don't you know I am THE group CFO! Send me a bigger car."

There are examples to the contrary as well. A director of the company started travelling by train on Delhi-Chandigarh route. Another senior manager has rejigged travel plans to ensure longer duration tours but all planned sequentially rather than touching home after every city visit.

Is it that some senior managers "don't own" the companies and therefore are shying from the tough calls that impact themselves. They are at their best in media calls announcing 10, 15 or even 20% cuts in manpower and that too with pride.

How will such people command any respect?

M/S Top Management, you are on the stage under limelight all the time and your colleagues at companies and outside are having a close look at you.


A few managers have lost all of my respect.....
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Comments

  1. Anonymous6 January 2009 at 10:55

    I think top management is on stage not just for people at down to see them but raise their eyes up to follow them as their role models.

    Since people working under the top leader can play a major role in influencing people at down he/she is quite closely seen and followed upon by others.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Anonymous7 January 2009 at 12:15

    well said. My challenge to "followers" is to act as mirrors to the senior management

    ReplyDelete

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