
What do these two events have in common? Aside from being big news, they remind me
that being a leader is hard and that your actions can be highly visible. In my view, though, OU President David Boren’s
response to the OU SAE members’ disgraceful actions was spot-on. President Boren did exactly what I would
advise an employer to do if employees engaged in similar conduct with evidence
on film. He did not wait until the
outcome of a full investigation to condemn the actions. He also did not dismiss or diminish the
cultural importance or impact of the behavior by chalking it up the misguided
actions of a few individuals or saying “boys will be boys.” News reports confirm that specific
students identified as leading the chant have been expelled.
The SAE house really was home to some True Gentlemen in my day. It is unfortunate that the inexcusable
actions of recent SAE members has sullied the reputation of their chapter. But, leaders have to act for the organization
as a whole. President Boren did that,
apparently recognizing that pulling punches and lowering standards does not do
anyone any favors. In the employment
context, excusing intolerable or poor conduct on one occasion makes it all the
more difficult to take necessary and appropriate action if a similar future
incident occurs.
Target CEO Brian C. Cornell has also had to take bold and
visible action this week. He is likely not
the most popular figure in some Minnesota households this week, but leadership often
means making tough choices with the long-term view in mind.
As an employer or leader, are there difficult tasks you have
been avoiding? Are you inviting greater legal
risk or increased difficulty because of your delay and possible personal
discomfort? If so, here are a few
reminders to help you keep your house in order:
- Be Thoughtful: Use documented decision-making processes that are as objective as possible and that can be clearly explained and defended if necessary.
- Be Consistent and Fair: Inconsistency and a sense of unfairness increase the practical risk of legal claims and can create problems in defending against claims that do arise.
- Take Your Time: Employment decisions should not be made in haste or out of emotion. No one does his or her best thinking in the heat of the moment.
- Be Respectful: Treat employees with respect, even when you have to make and implement tough decisions. This can help reduce the risk of legal claims. No one likes to receive bad news, but it will be received more poorly if delivered without respect.
No comments:
Post a Comment