Leading is hard enough when we like and respect those on the team. When leaders loathe, detest, or strongly dislike a direct report, leadership can become especially tricky. Leaders are people and they naturally avoid, ignore, or circumvent a colleague they dislike. This quickly becomes noticeable to the rest of the team, creating awkwardness and defensiveness with more than just the colleague out of favor. Team morale and effectiveness often suffer as a result.
I'd like to think the only reason I would really dislike a person is because of a lack of shared values. If that is the case, there is probably something I missed in the hiring stage.
If I dislike something because of a few quirks that just get on my nerves, my only real choice is to get to know them better, right? I'm not going to be effective at influencing those quirks without relationship.
Yes! All the more difficult when this person is exceptional at what they do.
I agree, with Steve, the core values is the true lever in determining likability. Learning more about the person and what makes them tick is valuable effort to expend.
I'd like to think the only reason I would really dislike a person is because of a lack of shared values. If that is the case, there is probably something I missed in the hiring stage.
If I dislike something because of a few quirks that just get on my nerves, my only real choice is to get to know them better, right? I'm not going to be effective at influencing those quirks without relationship.
This is really about team morale right?
Yes - you surely won't be able to effectively stink-eye someone into changing.
And trying to is bad news for the entire team.
Yes! All the more difficult when this person is exceptional at what they do.
I agree, with Steve, the core values is the true lever in determining likability. Learning more about the person and what makes them tick is valuable effort to expend.
Certainly. If they are an exceptional performer, as you say Giuliano, there is likely something to focus your appreciation on.
Not just true for the office.
If you can’t set boundaries on your spouse’s bad habits, you’ll end up resenting them and the relationship will lose intimacy and trust.