September 30, 2007
Mistake #8: Undermine – and allow undermining
Posted by red jello under Inside the Office, It's all about the people, Jobs, Careers, Work, LeadershipThe Brazen Careerist listed five ways to become a workplace superstar. Joe Fusco added additional ways to become an organizational superstar and how to shine in the workplace. In my work experiences, I have encountered at least one co-worker who has undermining on the brain, in his/her sleeve, and part of his/her MO. Someone who makes sure that So-And-Soe doesn’t get any further in the work food chain, and undermines any efforts for So-And-Soe. Good Morning America conducted a focus group of women who said that women prevent other women on getting ahead. Not exactly role models for workplace superstars. But, I have experienced it and know that men have experienced being undermined on their success with projects, getting promoted, transferred, etc. As a matter of fact, I have known dozens. I wouldn’t target women specifically for undermining. Men do their fare share. This is not a gender-specific phenomenon. Leadership is blind to ensuring that this doesn’t take place. In fact, I bet leadership has his/her own agenda and is doing a fare share of undermining. It is only a matter of time before you might catch on…
Ugh. It’s worse when you love your work and have to put up with the bull! There is a saying in Argentina that goes: “Amarrase los pantelones!” It means: stop whining, buckle your belt, and stand up for yourself! So, those of you who are experiencing workplace undermining: amarrase los pantelones!!
September 30, 2007 at 9:08 pm
Thanks for the mention, Joan! I like that you mention “margin” and “building yourself” in the same breath in your comment on my site. They are inseparable; no margin, particularly time, no opportunity to build oneself.
I’m intrigued; what’s the significance of “Red Ditto”?
Thanks, again.