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The Emperor Has No Clothes

Written by: Al Lucia

Article Overview: We need more courage to inform those in charge when things are not right. Here's a way to look at it from a childhood fairy tale.

The Emperor Has No Clothes

You remember the old story- only one person in the kingdom had the courage to tell the top dog that he was not dressed well and cool but undressed and making a fool of himself.
Well, today we have some examples of leaders who do things that make us wonder why no one has the courage to tell them how ridiculous their decision is or what a negative effect it could have.
When these decisions hurt your most important asset, your people, it is the HR executive who needs to step up and point out the error of his (the emperor’s) ways. I am not talking about a simplistic evaluation of people being hurt because sometimes the right decision overall can have a detrimental effect on certain individuals. Logical reductions in force or needed budgetary cuts can fall into this category. Instead, the hurtful activities referred to here are decisions that do not take into account the negative effect on morale, culture or brand and therefore become the wrong decision when looking at the big picture.
Many times it is a short term orientation that leads to these ineffective decisions. Trying to hit short term numbers, satisfying the whim of an executive, impatience with short term performance, customers who are overly demanding…yes even customers can be problematic if we let a few determine our actions rather than listening to the majority.
So the next time, in your professional opinion, there is a need for candor even if it is uncomfortable for you and the person making the mistake, I hope you will have the courage to do the right thing and speak up.
I can tell you from first hand experience- the emperor will usually appreciate it and you will sleep better at night knowing there are fewer “flashers” running around out there.

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