Esteemed Magazines April - May 2008 | Page 9

PAGE 9 Human relations We live in a world where bad news is the order of the day. At home, on the road, in the office, with friends in the local pub and even at school. 20 Distinguishing characteristics of a Master 1. Commits to ethical behavior. 2. Matches words with actions. 3. Strives for excellence. 4. Works independently of criticism and praise. 5. Organizes methodically. 6. Stands tall. 7. Listens to learn . 8. Teaches softly. 9. Tests strictly. 10. Proceeds patiently 11. Treats everyone equally. 12. Assumes the lead. 13. Accepts responsibility 14. Seeks simple solutions. 15. Dares to risk 16. Reacts calmly. 17. Lives now. 18. Appreciates all life 19. Improves her/ himself. 20. Helps others. (adapted from success.org by Bill Fitzpatrick In the work place, I have realized that one of the hardest tasks any manager has is to communicate bad news. In large corporate, it is easy to pass responsibility to others to do the communicating, or use e-mail or notice boards. In one man companies and smaller outfits, the burden squarely falls on the owner’s shoulders. So what is the best way to tell someone that you have to close down due to financial strain? The best way to tell someone they are fired? The best dirty, you had some wrong deals that compromised you or you were just not appointed for that business. Value your team. Downsizing affects everybody. When you have to do it, be human about it and do unto your team members what you would want to be done to you if you were in their shoes. The company values your input greatly and we will help as much as we possibly can but the company cannot sustain itself through the tough times. If you are a good employer, you might be surprised that your team would willingly stay on with you for less pay and fight to steer the company to greater heights. Be honest. If for instance you are leaving your employer for a competitor who is offering you more, sooner or later, your boss will find out that you are working for the competition. At your exit interview, if any, be plain but respectful, “I am leaving for better prospects but I am grateful for the opportunity you have continuously given me for contributing to the achievement of the company’s goals. I will be pursuing greater career advancements in the same industry but unfortunately, not within this company”. Communicating the bad news way to tell your managing director that you are leaving? The best way to say that you were unable to clinch a deal that meant everything for the company? The starting point is developing a culture of communication. Negative news will always be existent and so the best thing is to nurture grounds of dealing with the downside of business before it occurs. Developing a culture of communication means that information is shared before it is too late. For instance, a marketing executive will const