ABC's Of Leadership - K Is For Knowledge


By E. Elizabeth Carter

We have all heard the saying "knowledge is power," which many believe is attributed to Sir Francis Bacon back in the late sixteenth century. A true leader definitely needs to be experienced but he or she should also seek out others who are more knowledgeable in certain areas than they are. Ego gets in the way, however, because some leaders will not admit they do not have all of the answers.

If you work for someone who thinks they know it all, what are you supposed to do? First, you must spend the time really learning about your boss. Delve deep as much as you can in understanding how they function, their personal life, others they interact with, etc. Many times a person like this is actually very insecure and by boasting that "they know it all" they get the spotlight shined on them.

Next you need to understand your own behaviors and identify how you react when in this person's presence. This is not only about how you respond verbally but also your body language. This is critical because your leader may only act this way in front of you and it may be the way you respond that triggers this person to act in this manner. For example, they may be intimidated by your background or expertise and try to act superior especially when there are others present.

Once you have completed this analysis, try engaging with your boss in a different way. This could include ignoring some of his/her behaviors; when this person doesn't get a rise out of you they may stop acting this way. You may also have to praise the leader when necessary. I am not suggesting always using flattery, but it may be that this person does not feel appreciated by you when he/she does something worth a "thank you".

If all else fails, talk with others who "seem" to have a better rapport with this leader. You may learn that they are also having similar issues with this person so collectively you all may need to speak with this person's boss. This probably will be a difficult conversation but working in a toxic environment is not healthy for anyone.

Have you ever exhibited "know-it-all" behavior? Think about why you did that and was it productive for others or just annoying. Now think about your boss and if he/she has acted in a similar manner.

Other "K" words to ponder - kind and keynote.

Article Source:  ABC's Of Leadership - K Is For Knowledge

Post a Comment

Informations From: Taun17

Previous Post Next Post
  • What 5 Years of Bodybuilding Taught Me About Tackling Mondays

    By Hardeep Singh Anand It's not what it is in the working world, that's for sure. It's not the day where everyone drags their feet into the office, bags under their eyes. It's not the day people sit in front of their computers and start complaining about what a long week it's going to be. A... Readmore

  • Sun Burn Recovery - To Peel Or Not to Peel

    By Tanu Bhattacharya Beware! Sunlight, a major source of UVA and UVB radiation, penetrates deep into the skin cells, excessive exposure to which can potentially result in immune system suppression, eye cataract and multiple skin conditions. While UV rays are known to damage collagen fiber... Readmore

  • How to Find a Hard Working Virtual Assistant

    By Maryvel Tan How to Find a hard Working Virtual Assistant. The Hard Working Virtual Assistant Are you looking for someone who will work for you????? We are here to help you, even if you are away, we are the one who is reliable to work for your company. We are known as a virtual assis... Readmore

  • Data Science Training, Data Science - Machine Learning With Python

    By Jerome Titus Blueocean Learning is an IT consulting, Solutions and Services organization based out of Bangalore for the last 2 decades with a bandwidth to train corporate bodies and individuals alike in all niche technologies. We train organizations of all sizes from SME's to Global C... Readmore

  • Promote Learning Music Lessons to Keep Up With Times

    By Karen K Williams The relation of music and learning is a frequent research topic. Studies show that listening or playing can have an impact positively to the brain. Studies show music engages the brain and teaches learning content. Maximizing the relationship between learning and music h... Readmore

  • Maple Memories

    By Patricia H Kuhnen-Beaver Silver pails hang off dozens of trees as far as the eye can see. My brother and I dredge through the snow away from the barn then head down an icy path. A buttery smell guiding us like a siren into a large cabin. The door swings open with a hefty nudge. In fro... Readmore

  • Supply & Demand - Psychological Consumerism

    By Stephen F. Myler Abstract: This paper is exploring the psychological concept behind the economics of supply and demand. While we can only present the ideas in rudimentary form nevertheless we can see that over time the demands of the consumer have changed from the need to survive to th... Readmore

  • The Real Meaning (Freedom) of Counselling Relationships

    By Stephen F. Myler Part One: I see a lot of people in this group talk of ethics in the counselling room, what I should do with my clients (patients) what I should not do? Can I do this or can I do that - what if this happens and what if that happens. I want to tell you most of this is pu... Readmore

  • Emotional Labour - Organisational Behaviour

    By Stephen F. Myler Abstract: Putting on a good show, keeping face, professionalism in customer treatment can all be examples of emotional labour. When in the workplace dealing with others whether they be colleagues or customers we tend to give a positive emotional response despite the ne... Readmore

  • Surety Bonds Are Not Fair!

    By Steven Golia Why are some surety bonds better than others? Why can small ones be harder to get than big ones? Construction companies are among a bonding company's most important clients. They are the source of Performance and Payment bonds which guarantee their construction contracts. ... Readmore