Get advice on how to deal with jerks at work Check out the book 'Jerks At Work' and other titles by Ken Lloyd Ph.D. Return to the JerksAtWork.com homepage Learn more about Ken Lloyd, Ph.D. Submit a question to Ken Lloyd, Ph.D.
 

You asked, Ken answers ...

This item is filed under these categories:
Decision Making Persuasion Suggestions Mission Statements Corporate Culture

I love my new job, but my executive director and our board are mired by indecision. I often struggle with getting clear direction despite pushing for answers. I have heard this is the way our non-profit has always operated, since our executive director has held this position for 30 years. He is a wonderful man, but he stalls and often ends up making last minute hasty choices. How can I have an impact on this grossly inefficient process?



While this non-profit is bogged down with indecision, it is clear that the leadership team has made one key decision: this is how they prefer to operate. The organization has done so for the past 30 years, and most likely this is how it is going to operate for the next 30 years. If the board is satisfied with the director and the organization’s ability to fulfill its mission, there is not going to be much impetus for change.

In an organization with this type of culture, employees typically adjust to the last-minute nature of things, or they cannot make such an adjustment, so they leave.

If you truly work for a wonderful director, you should meet with him to express your concerns. When doing so, be sure to add some suggestions to expedite the decision making that affects your work. Importantly, let the director see how he and this non-profit can profit by the changes you are proposing.

Since you are new, you should let a little more time pass. During this period, the director’s decisions are going to help you make your next decision, whatever it may be.



Comment on this item

Your name (optional)
If you leave this blank, we'll list you as "Website visitor"


Your comments
Please keep your comments focused on the topic. Thanks!