Is this a case of a bad manager or someone who empowers their team?
In every meeting or project I participate in with this VP, I notice a consistent pattern: he rarely makes commitments and often looks to others for their input before reaching a conclusion. It feels like he avoids taking responsibility for decisions, especially during calls with external clients where he usually provides only vague, high-level responses.
I also observe a specific manager on our team who dedicates time to creating presentations, proofreading documents, and drafting firm-wide communications. An Associate Director frequently joins meetings with him, and it appears to me that he tends to delegate tasks to his direct reports instead of offering clear, direct guidance on what needs to be accomplished. He often seeks others’ opinions rather than providing decisive direction.
For instance, in a recent meeting that was meant to include me, the head of sales, operations, marketing, counsel, and others, he unexpectedly added a direct report (a Director) at the last minute.
What do you think? Is this behavior empowering for the team, or does it reflect poor management practices where he defers key responsibilities to others?
Thanks for your insights!
One response
It sounds like you’re encountering a management style that can be frustrating to navigate. It’s important to recognize that different leaders have varying approaches to decision-making and delegation.
On one hand, this VP might believe that involving his direct reports in discussions and decisions is a form of empowerment. He could be aiming to foster a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and encouraged to contribute their perspectives. This approach can sometimes lead to greater team buy-in and innovative solutions, as team members feel their input is acknowledged.
On the other hand, if he consistently avoids making decisions or taking responsibility, it can come across as a lack of leadership. When a manager defers too much and does not provide clear direction, it can create confusion and frustration among team members who may look for guidance and decisiveness.
Bringing in a direct report last minute, as you mentioned, can also suggest either a lack of preparation on his part or an attempt to share the workload. However, if this becomes a pattern, it could be perceived as him shirking accountability.
In summary, the behavior you’re observing could stem from a desire to empower his team, but it might also reflect a hesitation to take on necessary leadership responsibilities. Clear communication about expectations and the need for guidance could help improve the situation. It might also be beneficial to have an open conversation with him or seek feedback from peers to better understand his perspective and objectives.