STRESS!!!
One of the sections in Chapter 8 that I enjoy is Effective Stress Management (pp. 299-305). It offers an overarching definition of stress, and makes some interesting prescriptions. Take a moment and watch this video [ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rofEtZwGk5A ] from Harvard Business Publishing - it features and interview with Justin Menkes, the author of "Better Under Pressure." In light of your readings, and more importantly, your experiences, what do you think about Menkes' comments?
Although Menkes’ presentation was short, he does make a couple of valid points. First he believes that leaders are prepared for pressure and that they handle pressure without panic. Second, leaders believe that problems can be solved.
ReplyDeleteRobert asked us to link this back to our own experiences, and so I will. I work for the CEO of School District 02, and this year was particularly difficult as 1,200 Moncton High School students were displaced to other area schools. Education is an area where stakeholders are VERY passionate, and since we have public education, stakeholders want a say. Well, if you were living in Moncton in the past year, you know that pretty much everyone had their say…several times. Through this, I had an excellent opportunity to see leadership in action. Essentially, Karen made the tough decisions based on what she knew was right and the best for students. To stay the course, though, was very stressful. The media was relentless, the meetings held were frequent and usually at night after long days were put in at work, the CEO had no personal space, being questioned by the public while grocery shopping, attending community events, and even during lunch at a restaurant. I asked her today what kept her going during this period. She said that first, she knew the decision that was made was the right one. Second, she knew that she would have to weather criticism from the public, and third, she was the one steering the ship, so she had to keep the seas calm for the employees.
Karen’s leadership under pressure or stress, would seem to mirror some comments made in our text and by Menke – that leaders have a stress tolerance, that persons with a high degree of self-complexity are less susceptible to common stress related complaints and that leaders seek innovative solutions to problems/possess creativity…among other attributes.
One last thing that Menke says is that successful CEO’s are deeply involved with people. That would be true in my case. I think that this is a reciprocal agreement. Good leaders lift others up, get to know them, and understand that the people ARE the organization. In return, CEO’s often get the pulse of the organization, feedback that can buffer them in tough times, and the sense that the decisions they make, even in stressful times, are the right ones.
I think Menkes made a lot of good points. He seemed to focus on the point that preperation is the key to handling stressful situations. I think preparation is the key to success in most situations. Being prepared allows you to feel confident in your work and your ability to complete the task at hand. He also spoke on the subect that most leaders need to be trained. After the readings, I am surprised how much is involved in developing a good leader. A good leaders' values and intelligence are obviously important factors, but their behavior seems to be the key in developing what is necessary in an effective leader.
ReplyDeleteSorry...posted to the wrong group!
ReplyDeleteMenkes makes some interesting points that ring true with the readings this week, especially with the importance of preparation and training. It is true that we are living in an environment where there is constant pressure. I support his ideas on maximizing efforts and defining employee roles and their larger purpose. I also support his ideas on believing in the greatness in people and that nobody is a fixed entity. If you are willing to see the potential in your subordinates and inspire them to work to that potential, they will step up. Going in with an attitude that problems can be solved and being prepared and trained on how to react can make such a big difference in how we perform in a high pressured situation. Going with what Jackie said, if a leader knows that they made the best decision they could make, if they are aware that they will face consequences regardless, and are trained and prepared to deal with it, they will be able to adapt to pressure effectively.
ReplyDeleteStress is defined as the process by which we perceive and respond to situations that challenge or threathen us. As per Menkes, if the leader is positive and cares about his people and has 'realistic optimisim' that the problem can be resolved and believes in the ability of his subordinates than the potential to overcome the situation will be great.
ReplyDeleteAnother point Menkes made that I think closely related to the readings is his definition to subservinace to purpose. He saw it as how to maximize discretionary effort in people. That can be similar to the Leadership Behavior Questionair, Leadership Grid or the Leadership Pipeline. A good leader should be abe to identify peoples strong points and help them to maximize their talents to the best of their capability. He did seem to have a positive outlook on people and what they are capable of if they are willing to put in the effort.
ReplyDeleteIn light of my past experiences, it is evident that those who can accept the fact that stress is a part of life certainly adapt much better. I work with managers who stress out over the tiniest bump in the road, at work. When something major happens, they cannot even function and instead just shut down.
ReplyDeleteI agree with what Barb has said, leaders are only perceived as great when they have resolved or overcome a stressful situation. Part of great leadership is being prepared. If a company has a business continuity plan or a disaster recovery plan in place than it is the leaders job to execute the plan.
ReplyDeleteMeg's been experiencing some technical difficulties - here's her commentary:
ReplyDeleteMeg Irving
Post #1
Menkes' interview was very interesting. He covered numerous points that made a lot of sense and that seemed relatable to experiences I have had. I liked the way Menkes talked about stress being something that was manageable. Stress is always going to be in our lives and the challenge is to not let it overwhelm us and have a negative effect. Menkes' point on preparation is great way to learn to control the stress in our lives specifically stress in the work place. Being in control of your stressor will make the situation you are in more comfortable and improve your performance.
Post #2
I also could relate to Menkes's point on growing up with adrenaline. I think that sports are a great example of this! If you played competitive level sports and have had to deal with pressure growing up it definitely prepares you nicely for the pressure you face in your adult life. The stress and pressure we face in life is definitely something that takes time and experience to tackle. Experience also helps us use pressure as an effective tool and to not let it hinder our performance in a negative way.
Post #3
Another point that Menkes made that I really found enlightening was his opinions on CEO’s. As of late CEO’s have taken a lot of flack for being dishonorable people. They have been perceived as greedy and to have no concern for the well being of their employees. I agree with Menkes that not all CEO’s fit this negative persona. I do not think that all the CEO’s out there would have reached their level of success if they all acted, as they have been perceived.
This discussion is now closed, thanks!
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