9 Comments

That Japanese emperor's court was right! What a great adage to remember.

Expand full comment
author

Truly! The return on investing in hiring the just right person for each job is huge.

Expand full comment

"Hire for character" seems to be a very good dictum. But was the hirer themself hired for character?? Hence does this shape how some corporate cultures develop?

Expand full comment
author

Good point Michael. What goes around comes around!

Expand full comment

I've definitely worked for that type of leader before - all charisma and big ideas on the surface, but a nightmare to actually work with day-to-day.

That part about the CEO struggling with the concept of boundaries made me chuckle. It's amazing how some people rise to power without ever learning basic interpersonal skills. So many leaders need more self-awareness.

As always, thank you for the insightful read Baird.

I hope you have a fantastic week ahead.

Expand full comment
author

Thanks Neela. It's hard to avoid these bosses. They're a self-selecting breed. That's why you and I are so smart to pick the best boss: ourselves!

Expand full comment

amen to that lol

Expand full comment

I'm surprised you were not immediately tossed out by the CEO of every company that brought you in. But in my experience board members are there to support the CEO, not to direct the organization.

Expand full comment
author

Ha! There are some benevolent CEOs who do want good leadership and a healthy workplace. And your point about boards is correct. The board on the case I mentioned was rightly afraid the whole company was going to implode, so they acted.

Expand full comment