The Top 50 Management Dilemmas

Having your authority or ability questioned

None of us likes to have our authority or our ability challenged. Understanding the motivation for any such challenge will give you a framework for your response. Challenges such as these cannot go unanswered.

First, think:

• Is it possible that there is a legitimate reason for this challenge?
• Who is the person making the challenge? Is it a colleague, a team member or a superior? Is it someone outside the organisation?
• Is the challenger someone you respect? Are they motivated by self-interest or do they believe the challenge is necessary if the team is to meet its objectives?
• Is this a particularly difficult time for the team or for the organisation? Are emotions running high?
• How have you responded ...