Organizational oxymorons
Every organizational culture lives out inherent contradictions. In many cases, contradictions are unresolved conflicts of values and/or beliefs. Here are a few classics I keep running across.
I don’t mind a flat organization as long as I’m on top
I like a team who sees their job as leaving me alone
I want people to buy into decisions they were excluded from creating
I want a boss who’s the parent I always wanted but never had
I want employees who are more loyal to me than I ever plan to be to them
I want people to trust me as long as I don’t have to trust them
I want our customers to pretend they don’t have needs we aren’t fulfilling
I want people to know what I need without my having to tell them
I want employees to feel pride in being second to customers
I don’t mind risks as long as other people take them
I don’t mind change as long as nothing has to be different
March 2nd, 2006 18:41
Reminds me of “lining up in a circle” and “you three guys pair up.”
And there are still people who ask me with my credentials, why don’t I just get a job in a corporation. Duhhh!
March 2nd, 2006 19:47
They are all rediculous yet sincerely uttered, which adds to the ironic amusement.
And yes Steve, it’s like: A guy as smart as you should be doing something else. : )