What are some genuine examples of a manager “power tripping” over a team member or the entire team?
I recently joined a new team with a different manager, and during a conversation with a colleague from another team, I mentioned that my new manager expects us to keep our webcams on during meetings. Although I personally don’t enjoy it, I can see why this could be a reasonable request for engagement.
However, my colleague suggested that it might be her way of exerting power, which I found a bit confusing.
What are some authentic scenarios where a manager might be seen as abusing their authority over you or the team?
Also, I’d love to hear broader examples of behaviors that might be considered a “power trip,” whether from managers or anyone in a position of authority. I’m trying to understand this concept better. Thanks!
One response
Power tripping can occur when someone in a position of authority exercises their power in an excessive, abusive, or unnecessarily controlling manner. Here are some examples, including but not limited to managers:
Micromanaging: A manager who constantly checks in on an employee’s work, even for minor tasks, can create a sense of distrust and make team members feel like they are not capable of doing their job without oversight.
Unreasonable Demands: If a manager sets impossible deadlines or expects team members to be constantly available outside of working hours without justification, it can be seen as an abuse of power.
Public Criticism: Calling out team members or criticizing their work in front of others can undermine morale and create a toxic team environment.
Favoritism: Giving preferential treatment to certain employees while ignoring or sidelining others can create division and resentment within the team.
Ignoring Input: Dismissing or belittling team members’ suggestions, opinions, or feedback, especially when they are valid, can be a way to assert dominance and control.
Control Over Personal Time: A manager who insists on having meetings at odd hours or expects attendance at non-work-related events might be overstepping boundaries and an attempt to exert control over personal time.
Changing Policies Abruptly: Implementing or enforcing policies suddenly without discussion or rationale—like requiring webcams during meetings—can be perceived as a power move if not handled transparently.
Withholding Information: Limiting access to information that team members need to do their work can give a sense of control and can impede the team’s ability to perform.
Threatening Job Security: Using threats about job security to manipulate or coerce employees into compliance is a clear example of power tripping.
In summary, while some requests from managers are legitimate (like requiring webcams for accountability), the intention and manner in which those demands are presented play a huge role in whether they come across as a reasonable management practice or a power trip. Recognizing the balance between authority and respect is key.