The story that was relayed in our text about the threat of defensive behavior was spot-on. I’ve experienced the exact situation where a supervisor throws me off guard by having a third party present in a meeting and insisting that I acknowledge in writing whatever they’re presenting. It’s happened with reviews, as in this story as well as with performance issues.
I honestly hate to admit that there’s been more than one meeting of this kind because I feel that it reflects badly on me. I really am a conscientious employee, I have a solid work ethic and I get on quite well with the majority of people I’ve worked with. Those other few people though, somehow I seem to get under their skin.
I appreciate that our text provided ways in which to avoid creating this kind of an environment but wish that it had suggested ways to respond when you walk in to such a situation. As an employee who experienced these situations on multiple occasions, I tried to avoid creating a similar situation when graduated in to management roles. With the list of behaviors that Gibb identified as fostering defensiveness or supportiveness I feel that I can be even more successful at that in the future.
Hey Annabeth,
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a difficult situation you find yourself in sometimes. I couldn't even imagine what it would be like to have my employers/supervisors coming against me in a way like that. I think it is good that you were able to relate to the book as it hopefully showed you that you are not the only person that this type of defensive communication happens to. I agree though that the book should have had some more follow through for this situation and other situations, but I guess they are primarily focused on presenting the conflicts, not necessarily the next step. I hope things get better and you get better supervisors.
Thanks for posting - Kenzie Marie
I totally wrote about the same thing! I am sorry about your situation because that really seems like something you don't have a lot of say over. I think that using the correct supportive responses may help alleviate the situation or at least not make it worse. I certainly know how it feels to be put in a situation where defensive behaviors are present and there isn't much you can do. I'm glad the text helped you and I hope you find a solution to your problem!
ReplyDeleteHi AnnaBeth Patel, you did a really good job with this post. Defensive behavior is something we all encounter with others at some point. I can understand how it must be tough to deal with a boss who has defensive behavior. I experience defensive behavior with my coworkers at times. It is really frustrating to deal with because it throws you off guard. I am sure having to deal with it from your boss. I think it’s a really great that you are making a conscious decision to make sure you don’t act them same way when you were promoted to management.
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