Have you ever come across one of those people who, even though they’ve only just arrived on the scene, is keen to tell you that, “(they) know exactly what the problem is” and “what you need to do is...”? Well I have – unfortunately on more than one occasion - and I find them extremely annoying!
I’m sorry, but it doesn’t matter what your background is and how much experience you have, you cannot possible approach a person or team in such a manner and retain your credibility.
It’s not just consultants who can fall into this trap. I’ve also seen recently hired employees make this same mistake. Let me reiterate, this is not a great first impression to leave behind! Having been on the receiving end, my immediate thoughts about the offending individual are generally extremely poor and certainly not repeatable here.
To be fair, I don’t think this is a common trait, which is why it sticks out like a sore thumb when you see it. Most of us understand how to treat people with a bit more respect.
I’m not certain it’s deliberate either. It’s more likely to be a lack of emotional intelligence in the offender. Or am I being too generous?
Anyway, you can probably tell that I’ve just had such an incident and it prompted me to write. It’s actually quite cathartic.
The question that’s just struck me of course is how do I come across when I first arrive somewhere new? OMG, do I make this mistake too? Surely not!?!?!
Perhaps now is the time to state what I actually set out to do and this is where the title for the entry comes in. I believe in the ‘inspect & adapt’ school of thought. Before expounding my opinions, I would much rather take the time to understand the situation, determine if I have any relevant experience to contribute and then tailor my thoughts and suggestions to the context at hand. Experience counts for an awful lot, but it needs to be applied to fit the current environment if it is going to make a difference.
If you read this, know me and think that I have my own challenges and opportunities to improve in this area, then please let me know. However, if that's the case, do treat me gently with your feedback as you now know that at least I think I'm doing the right thing!
