I am always interested in how companies and their managers make decisions. I often find that HR leaders preach the need for consistency while line managers look for a little “wiggle room” when making policy-related decisions. The answer to this dichotomy is found in the concept of fairness. Rather than sticking strictly to the letter of the policies, managers must consider the intent and then be judicious and fair. To do that, they need to be engaged with their employees and do more listening than talking. They need to consider the nuances and personalities “on the floor”, be mindful of past practices, consider all the facts, and weigh these variables carefully. Don’t get stuck in opinions of who’s involved – that’s a trap. And remember that when managing people, one size rarely fits all. If the facts are the same, be consistent. But if they’re different, vary the decision accordingly. That’s being relatively consistent while also being fair. If other employees question the inconsistency, defend the concept of fairness. And if managers are uncomfortable thinking like that, remind them that they wanted that “wiggle room”. Be flexible, judicious, wise, and fair in your thinking today.
James Russell Lowell (1819 – 1891): American Romantic poet, critic, editor, and diplomat; he was associated with the Fireside Poets
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