The environment is so toxic. People in tears daily. What happened to us? I miss Phil Knight.
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I agree that it is incredibly toxic. There is useless competition, teammates pitted against each-other as they vie for attention from senior leadership. And senior leadership playing favorites. Pretentious, butt-kissing, inexperienced, sycophants are being promoted while loyal, ethical, dedicated, and results-producing teammates are left behind searching for a freestyle desk. When my former manager resigned, I predicted that her replacement would be the Sr. Director's "pet" employee. And I was right.
My team was now reporting to a recent university grad with no leadership experience other than managing a collegiate gymnastics team, and no functional, educational, or professional background in our roles and responsibilities. I expressed my concern to our director. They asked me why I didn't apply for the position. I responded stating that the decision was made before the job posted and I don't have the time to go through a courtesy interview. That was met with a snarling response of "that's so unfair" and almost in the next breath, the director smiles sharing that our new manager "was identified as high-potential early on." Great.
My first manager 1:1 consisted of them telling me that "you guys" lack credibility, and that they are looking forward to us developing a friendship. To which I responded, "I have plenty of friends, I need your leadership." I was exasperated by attending meetings to prepare for meetings- trying to ensure 100% consensus. I quickly grew sick of my team being referred to as "you guys" or the cringe-worthy "you guys-es"- never "we, us, or ours." I grew weary of every team suggestion and request responded to with "I don't understand," or "yeah, but..."
And I was in tears often due to utter frustration. So I got out. Thanks to a robust LinkedIn profile and some serious e-networking, I had multiple offers to consider. There are opportunities with better pay, collaborative environments, and healthier culture out there.
Word
Amen