How to tell a boss his staff are rubbish?
Discussion
This happened recently. I'm chatting with a guy exploring the possibilty of my doing some work for him in the future, and the question arises of how I would get on with the existing staff.
I, of course, tell him that there would be no problem, that I would be aware of the sensitivity of the situation, and as a result would ensure that all would be well in that regard.
Now, being familiar with the work of his organisation, it is obvious to me (and others) that his staff are a bunch of piss-taking wkers, that the work they do (when they are there) is poor quality and mis-directed. However, as the conversation continues it dawns on me that he doesn't realise any of this. As far as he is concerned, it's a great team and he wants to keep it that way. FFS!. How can I disabuse him of this misbegotten notion?
Basically, I'm already aware that there is nothing I can do about it (if I want the work, that is) but I just wanted to share with you the shock and horror I felt, and to provide you with an opportunity to mention similar experiences.
I, of course, tell him that there would be no problem, that I would be aware of the sensitivity of the situation, and as a result would ensure that all would be well in that regard.
Now, being familiar with the work of his organisation, it is obvious to me (and others) that his staff are a bunch of piss-taking wkers, that the work they do (when they are there) is poor quality and mis-directed. However, as the conversation continues it dawns on me that he doesn't realise any of this. As far as he is concerned, it's a great team and he wants to keep it that way. FFS!. How can I disabuse him of this misbegotten notion?
Basically, I'm already aware that there is nothing I can do about it (if I want the work, that is) but I just wanted to share with you the shock and horror I felt, and to provide you with an opportunity to mention similar experiences.
I've done a bit of consultancy work for a friend who owns a small business. The head of one department was a good guy, and it became clear there was no need for my work there, the other two were a shower and needed sorting out in a big way.
Luckily the boss is a pragmatic guy and we're able to talk plainly about it without having to skirt around the issue.
My end of the work went well and things have improved dramatically.
Luckily the boss is a pragmatic guy and we're able to talk plainly about it without having to skirt around the issue.
My end of the work went well and things have improved dramatically.
Hyperion said:
Join the team and resolve all outstanding tasks in one week. The manager will soon get the message unless he's too busy playing golf or looking through the German company car catalogue to notice.
Surely the boss would be off fishing? Edited by Hyperion on Friday 28th November 12:47
Gassing Station | The Lounge | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff