Whoa! He really listened to me!
April 9, 2008 by Jenny
It’s a little tense in our department. It’s no one’s “fault” but there have just been some issues that have popped up and they weren’t handled spectacularily. People don’t know the whole story, so they’re angry. So … I suggested to my boss that we have a department meeting.
Me: I know you’re really busy, but do you think we have time for a department meeting?
Him: Why?
Me: (thinking - really? you don’t know why?) well … it’s just a little tense around here and I thought it would help if we all sort of talked about it.
Him: I don’t think meetings help get rid of tension, I think that it just makes it worse.
Me: I don’t agree with you… just think about it and let me know.
Him: I’ll think about it.
I’ve just heard that he was walking down the hallway asking people if they thought we needed a meeting. Wow. He listened to me. Can’t believe it. Now, all I have to do is convince him that he needs to leave his ego at the door, apologize for not handling the situation properly and lead us to figure out how we can become a team again.
By the way … any good links to team building after a yucky tense time?
Its a shame you didnt catch it on camera. I mean a boss agreeing with an employee scary. I wonder when that might happen again.
I wish I had some fab advice and tips for you on this, but I’m afraid I’m all out.
But I’m very impressed with you for sticking to your point and getting him to think about it! Go girl!