An Unavoidable Truth

Speaking of Sheriff Taylor, “The Kids, a ltttle lacks, he doesn’t run a top ship.”

Barney Fife, The Andy Griffith Show (Season 2, Episode 29.)

“What infinite heart’s ease must kings neglect, that private men enjoy!”

- William Shakespeare, Henry V, Act IV, Scene I

Heavy is the head that wears the crown.

One important truth every leader must accept is this: you will be talked about. Whether it’s around the water cooler or at your employees’ dinner tables, your name will come up, and not every review will be glowing.

That’s human nature. Venting about “management” is a common way for people to release pressure. Some of the critiques will be fair, others not, but it’s all part of the job. There will always be Monday-morning quarterbacks and backseat drivers. That said, legitimate concerns will also arise, and those deserve your full attention.

The goal is to create an environment where people feel comfortable talking to you, not just about you. And creating that environment starts with you. As the leader, you set the tone. Speak honestly and directly, and never say behind someone’s back what you wouldn’t say to their face. Is that easy? No. But it’s essential to building trust and integrity within your team.

One thing I want to make clear: I’m not talking about chasing down gossip or stressing over salacious rumors. I’m talking about real, work-related concerns. Don’t make it a habit to act on second-hand reports. Not everyone who brings you a complaint does so in good faith-and as my mother used to say, “A dog that will bring you a bone (of contention) will be more than happy to carry one to someone else.”