Episode #507: Should the Boss Argue With The Staff?

 
Establishing a work atmosphere where employees feel free to question the boss's decisions is important, even though it can be difficult, particularly in societies like Japan where dissent may not be common. In certain companies, the notion of a psychologically secure environment—which is frequently emphasised in the West—may conflict with the established hierarchical systems. Although the idea of a "servant leader" who uplifts and encourages the group is highly regarded, the emotional complexity of human nature makes the reality more difficult to understand.

Bosses can fluctuate between being unduly confident and extremely time-constrained because they are frequently plagued by doubts and imposter syndrome. Self-assured leaders run the risk of ignoring dissenting opinions and damaging the organisation. Bosses who are always pressed for time tend to communicate in a minimalistic manner and provide little team coaching. Collaboration may be hampered by an unbalanced information flow caused by leaders hoarding knowledge. Bosses must to take a moment, listen intently, and take their employees' viewpoints into consideration rather than brushing off ideas. To do this, it takes deliberate effort to interpret both spoken and nonspoken cues. Bosses, in spite of their experience, ought to admit that improved team chemistry and decision-making can result from a cooperative and transparent approach.