There’s so much written on being a good leader, I thought I’d look at the other side of leadership.

So here goes. Here’s my “Dirty Dozen” of poor leadership.

Remember intimidation is almost as good as leadership. (And it’s quicker) Always keep ’em in their place. Never back down from letting them know who’s the boss. “Because I said so” is a great refrain to keep this attitude going. Challenge subordinates to “just try me” when they have a different opinion than you. Treat everybody the same. You never have to understand differences between staff members. You don’t have to gyrate your style to meet the needs of others, after all, you are the boss. They have to adapt to your style, not the other way around! Take credit for all success. As the boss you are the reason there is success here anyway. Remember everything rises on leadership. If it’s good you did it. If it’s not good, they did it. Don’t ask for subordinate input. If they knew anything of value, they’d be in higher positions. And if you need their opinion you’ll give it to them anyway. Never change your mind. You only need to decide once…. Since situations never change and making decisions is hard work…. Why should you work more than needed? Once you decide, remain “the decider”. Flip-Flop Constantly. Reserve the right to change your mind…. early and often. You need to consistently mix this trait with “Never change your mind”. Keep ’em guessing. Don’t Say “Thanks”. Your team should be grateful to be working with YOU. Not the other way around. They should be thankful to have a job at all. Saying “Thanks” dilutes your power. Avoid ‘Hard’ Decisions. Avoid ‘tough’ conversations. If it isn’t pleasant, it’s not your job. If you do unpleasant tasks your team may think less of you. You recognize popularity is a big deal. Reward Fluff. Ignore Substance. What you reward, you get more of. Your good performers will always provide substance without your input so you need to guarantee fluff by rewards. Remember, fluff makes good headlines and attracts more positive attention which makes you look better. Promote “Kissing Up”. You need to surround yourself with people who agree with you. No one should question your almighty perceptions or ideas. Questions lead to new ideas and thinking. Nobody needs a thinker. We need do-ers. Doing without thinking is what got you here. Kissing up keeps this cycle in place. Transparency is for suckers. You need to keep your ‘cards close to the vest’, If anybody knows your business, then you don’t have any. All leadership decisions and processes must remain closed. Keep ’em guessing about your plans or vision or mission. Remember the World War II adage: “Loose lips sink ships.” Never worry about Trust. You motto should be “Always Verify”. Trust in your people shows weakness. However, you must demand their trust. Trust prevents passive aggressiveness and what fun would work be without that? Sarcasm is the new wisdom. When they start showing trust use plenty of sarcasm to show them the error of their ways.

Hopefully you don’t see yourself in these… If you do, I hope you are willing to consider some growth….

And of course, Your mileage may vary.

Dr Jay