Q. What happens when it is a big mistake?
It would be that direct conversation. Everybody makes mistakes. Everybody is owed second chances and maybe even third chances. You just have to say that, ‘This cost us a lot of money. Here’s what could have been done to prevent it. Here’s what you need to be cognizant and aware of in the future.’
But the truth is, depending on what level in the organization, you’d probably say to somebody (that) second and third chances are fine. You start moving beyond that on critical decisions that have cost the company money, and then you have to wonder, ‘Do I have the right person in this job?’
Q. Would you have this conversation with employees two levels below you, or would your managers handle that?
It’s a combination. My management style is very involved and very open with everybody at all levels of the organization. The combination comes in (when) I don’t want to supersede my direct reports’ authority and make them feel like, ‘Why am I here if you are going to fix all of these things?’
It is a combination where, if I am going to do that, I’d go to my direct report before going down a level or two and say, ‘In this case, I’d like to go talk to John or Mary personally. I want to let you know that I’m going to do it, unless you have a major problem. I think there will be a good effect on that person and residually in the organization.’
How to reach: BCD Meetings & Incentives, (312) 396-2000 or www.bcdmi.com