Weak managers use signs

Nothing communicates weak management as signs do.

You should do THIS. Please refrain from THAT.

People who follow your orders do it because they either respect you, or they fear you. Others simply ignore you.

When ignored, too many weak managers double down and produce MORE signs. But more regulation never earns any trust. Neither does it create fear in those who straight out don’t respect you. It just makes matters worse.

Moreover, signs are passive. Through signs you say you don’t want to explain or consult. You don’t trust they can do the right thing themselves.

You COMMAND them.

The sign-culture is not limited to physical signs. Rules, regulations, announcements, dehumanized processes; anything that avoids direct communication is potentially toxic. It is also symptomatic of executive desperation, lack of culture and disconnect.

Replace signs by actual human interaction.

Regulate your work environment less.

Build a culture of trust and it will regulate itself.