5. The Manager Who Takes Full Credit for Work They Didn’t Do
You’ve been working day and night to move mountains. The day comes when you’ve succeeded, and it’s time for everyone to know. But when the press release goes out, you’re not mentioned.
While it isn’t unusual for a department head to pat herself on the back for “overseeing” your success, it’s a sign of a bad leader to dismiss those who really did the lion’s share of the job.
How to Deal
If public announcements don’t recognize the right individuals or acknowledge a team effort, the way to approach your boss depends on them. If you think it was a very purposeful decision, this is one time you have to let it go. If people on your own team should have been applauded and weren’t, then do it yourself. Even if it’s just in an internal email to them or throwing an appreciation lunch, you have the opportunity to do what your boss doesn’t: Be a leader.
But if you feel comfortable, send a quick email to your boss letting them know your team put a lot of work into the initiative and were a little disappointed not to see their names recognized publicly. Maybe she’ll apologize, maybe she won’t—but your team will be stronger because you advocated for them.
Anybody can be a boss—it doesn’t immediately equate to being a leader. Keeping an eye out for these warning signs will help you understand the kind of person you report to—and whether it’s worth leaving them.
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