Survival Kit for the Threatened Manager
12 October 2010
Read by 1889 persons
Social conflict, sequestration... More and more bosses are facing situations where they must show physical courage. Our advice to remain firm and dignified in the ordeal.
Essex, Sullair, 3M, Sony France... These companies that have recently been in the news have one thing in common: their bosses have been held hostage by employees who thought they could attract attention to their demands. And when a procedure seems to set a precedent, it's best to be prepared! The following advice should allow you to remain dignified in stressful physical situations you may face. A golden rule: never let your reptilian brain take over. Your emotions - fear, anger, the feeling of injustice - must never guide your actions. In all circumstances, calm and composure will be your most precious assets.
I'm being insulted, how should I react?
First, assert your authority by calmly but firmly reminding everyone that while everyone has the right to disagree, there's no question of forgetting the rules of politeness. Then, suggest a break. Have coffee and cool drinks distributed or offer your colleagues a walk outside with you. These simple gestures help to return to more human relations.
Leaders are becoming more virulent, how should I speak to them?
Don't give in to the temptation to be rude to those who are rude to you... or to use informal language with those who use informal language with you. Make it a point to set an example by remaining respectful. Avoid personal attacks and focus on purely factual elements. The trap to avoid: letting yourself be drawn into the field of confrontation. Above all, no reaction of pride!
The situation is getting out of control, should I assert myself?
A group often includes undecided people. Identify them and give them the floor. Forget your position to talk person to person: taking off the masks can help to rebuild relationships. Give your interlocutors a way out in the negotiation, because they won't be able to convince the rest of the group if they themselves feel like they're losing face.
I'm afraid, how do I hide it?
Adopt a non-threatening physical attitude, being careful not to appear as a victim. For example, there's no question of cowering in a protective posture. Stand up straight, arms open, and look your interlocutor in the eyes. Also avoid moving your leg or fiddling with a pen. If you manage to save appearances, no one will notice your anxiety.
I fear a kidnapping, how do I prepare for it?
Keep a toiletry bag with a razor, toothbrush, and toothpaste in your drawer, in case the sequestration lasts. Essential for staying in touch with the outside world and your family: a cell phone charger. Finally, always have the number of influential local personalities, politicians or bosses, to call for help in case of emergency.
Published September 28, 2010
Posted online December 5, 2011
capital.fr
Essex, Sullair, 3M, Sony France... These companies that have recently been in the news have one thing in common: their bosses have been held hostage by employees who thought they could attract attention to their demands. And when a procedure seems to set a precedent, it's best to be prepared! The following advice should allow you to remain dignified in stressful physical situations you may face. A golden rule: never let your reptilian brain take over. Your emotions - fear, anger, the feeling of injustice - must never guide your actions. In all circumstances, calm and composure will be your most precious assets.
I'm being insulted, how should I react?
First, assert your authority by calmly but firmly reminding everyone that while everyone has the right to disagree, there's no question of forgetting the rules of politeness. Then, suggest a break. Have coffee and cool drinks distributed or offer your colleagues a walk outside with you. These simple gestures help to return to more human relations.
Leaders are becoming more virulent, how should I speak to them?
Don't give in to the temptation to be rude to those who are rude to you... or to use informal language with those who use informal language with you. Make it a point to set an example by remaining respectful. Avoid personal attacks and focus on purely factual elements. The trap to avoid: letting yourself be drawn into the field of confrontation. Above all, no reaction of pride!
The situation is getting out of control, should I assert myself?
A group often includes undecided people. Identify them and give them the floor. Forget your position to talk person to person: taking off the masks can help to rebuild relationships. Give your interlocutors a way out in the negotiation, because they won't be able to convince the rest of the group if they themselves feel like they're losing face.
I'm afraid, how do I hide it?
Adopt a non-threatening physical attitude, being careful not to appear as a victim. For example, there's no question of cowering in a protective posture. Stand up straight, arms open, and look your interlocutor in the eyes. Also avoid moving your leg or fiddling with a pen. If you manage to save appearances, no one will notice your anxiety.
I fear a kidnapping, how do I prepare for it?
Keep a toiletry bag with a razor, toothbrush, and toothpaste in your drawer, in case the sequestration lasts. Essential for staying in touch with the outside world and your family: a cell phone charger. Finally, always have the number of influential local personalities, politicians or bosses, to call for help in case of emergency.
Published September 28, 2010
Posted online December 5, 2011
capital.fr
