What workers commonly expect to happen in a job/from their boss:
- There will always be a few stars, a bunch of mediocrity, a few slugs, and at least one a-hole.
- I’ll be working for somebody who is more concerned about their agenda than my interests.
- Chances are, no one will be willing to listen to me until I’ve been here a really long time (I won’t) or have knocked something completely out of the park.
- Getting to do your very best work is something that happens once in a blue moon (about every three years).
- The best way to get ahead is to imitate the people above you, suck up, and play nice in the sandbox.
Conversely, people who are working for the best leaders (true talent magnets) find a completely different scenario where:
- The standards are exceptionally high. It’s like playing for the Yankees. Nearly everyone is a star, C-players are either moving up or out, mis-hires are quickly identified and dealt with, and there are NO a-holes.
- Player development is a priority and well supported. You’ll find yourself reporting to someone who, perhaps for the first time in your life, is as serious as a heart attack about your developmental needs and career interests. You better be, too.
- You can expect to be listened (really listened) to from day one. Make sure you’re contributing more ideas than noise.
- You’ll be answering to someone who will work hard to give you the chance to do your best work, every day. Don’t let poor attitude/effort or lack of preparation on your part disappoint them, or the people around you.
- The best way to get ahead is to do your job, with a cherry on top. every. single. day. Just perform, baby.
