GenXmanager: Leadership for the Generation X Manager

The Office went back to its normal 30 minute format this week. Personally, though I love The Office, I enjoyed the 30 minute version better than the 60 minute extended version. It seemed to move at a better pace. Anyway, as I watched last night’s episode, I thought of a few business lessons that I’d like to share. Because I have a few meetings today, this will be an abbreviated post.

Lesson #1: Encouraging creativity gets people motivated, keeps them energized and creates a cohesive team.

It was great seeing Pam excited about creating the graphic logo and pulling an all-nighter. It was even better seeing the Dunder Mifflin staff pull together to write and produce a catchy jingle. When Michael Scott said, “It’s not me,” in response to hearing the first jingle, Darrel, the stock manager, said in response, “It’s better than you, it’s us!” This short retort is a testament to their teamwork.

Lesson #2: You have the power to build AND squash creative energy.

As the Dunder Mifflin team was in the middle of creating the commercial jingle, Michael yelled, “I hate it! I hate it!…I don’t hate it. I just don’t like it at all. And it’s terrible.” After Michael made this statement, you could see the energy and enthusiasm just evaporate. As a boss, leader, or team member, you have the power to build energy and motivate through your words and actions. You also have the power to demotivate and destroy any enthusiasm that existed.

Lesson #3: Pay attention to the heart

Phyllis was tasked to stand in line at a Sue Grafton book signing and recruit her for the new Dunder Mifflin Infinity, Scranton Branch, TV commercial. She comes back to the office in tears. She says that she asked Sue Grafton to participate in the advertisement and Ms. Grafton declined. Since she was not suppose to take “No” for an answer, she persisted and was thrown out by security. She was embarrassed that she was thrown out in front of her friends. Rather than consoling her, Michael asks, “So did you or did you not get Sue Grafton?” Pay attention to the heart as well as the bottom line.

Lesson #4: Don’t be like Michael Scott
(This is a lesson that can be taken from any episode of The Office.)

Michael Scott’s complete lack of sensitivity, total self-absorption, and complete ineptitude is one reason why the show is so funny. It is funny because we all intuitively know we aren’t supposed to act like Michael Scott. Of course, most of us don’t act like him nor do we behave in the same manner; else we would likely get fired. However, many of us show glimpses of Michael Scott every day. Look at how you behave and react in certain situations. Analyze how you communicate good and bad information. Examine how you treat your fellow team members or employees. Likely, you behave like Michael Scott in some small way. Improve yourself by acting the opposite (except in those very rare instances where Michael is compassionate or competent…but that’s not very often).