Condescension rarely builds loyalty or trust. Describing — even dismissing — adversaries and colleagues as “childish” and “immature” seems a surefire way to inspire hostility and resentment. You’d think serious leaders and healthy organizations would avoid insultingly corrosive characterizations.
Why the Adult Supervision Cliche is Bad for Business
Condescension rarely builds loyalty or trust. Describing — even dismissing — adversaries and colleagues as “childish” and “immature” seems a surefire way to inspire hostility and resentment. You’d think serious leaders and healthy organizations would avoid insultingly corrosive characterizations. That’s why I’m astonished that some of the highest-profile Silicon Valley and Beltway elites have embraced […]
August 04, 2011
New!
HBR Learning
Leading People Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Leading People. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
What you need to know about being in charge.
Learn More & See All Courses
New!
HBR Learning
Leading People Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Leading People. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
What you need to know about being in charge.