Pros and Cons of Covering for an Incompetent Boss
Incompetence is such a harsh word, automatically implying a negative connotation associated with the very meaning it holds. As defined, it simply states a lack of physical or intellectual ability, or qualifications. Just because a boss or manager holds a number of degrees in their field of employment, doesn't necessarily qualify them for the job at hand.
Have you ever been in a situation when you've wondered how in the world this person obtained such a position they are clearly not qualified for? When the obvious is so clearly defined, employees are then put in an impossible position, compromising both their integrity and position of responsibility.
There may be a variety of issues that impede ones ability to perform as expected. We've all experienced days when we were less than optimal, and yet we're still able to pick up the slack so to speak. When it's an ongoing issue on a daily basis, then there needs to be an intervention between management and upper management that brings resolve.
Managers are in place to maintain the integrity and safety of an assigned environment, albeit an office or assembly line. There is a great demand for management, and often times, they are judged unfairly by others who don't understand the responsibility they have to adhere to that keeps companies successful.
With that being said, let's also look at those that abuse this title, and hide behind the authority they hold over others. When employees are put in a position to compensate for management on any level, there should be an alternative sought out to avoid such a major disaster.
As in any business, there is always a chain of command. This chain of command is the connection that all employees have access to no matter the consequences. There are a lot of things to consider when you decide to climb this chain, but it's not meant to be used as a scare tactic. It's in place so that employees can make a conscientious decision to do the right thing.
Doing the right thing won't make you popular by any means. It may even backfire on you in the long run, but only you can determine if that's an avenue you want to pursue. Education and diplomas are essential tools needed for success in the corporate world, but one must also possess communication skills in addition to being educated.
An office full of diplomas on display for all to see only tells of where you were educated. There's no greater let down then that of an employee whose manager or leader lacks the skills needed to complete the job at hand. We would be removed without hesitation, and yet as employees see it, we overcompensate due to incompetence of management.
To assume there are those who work in such conditions without choice would make me a fool to say the least. However, the same can be said for corporations that knowingly have this problem and choose to pretend it doesn't exist.
The responsibility clearly lies with Corporate and all that that term implies. As adults we are told early on to be responsible for ourselves, and have quality of character. We can't assume to preach this to our children, and not adhere to it as adults. The choice is yours.
