One retired executive knows how corporate culture can reinforce bully behavior. Our company personality took a 180-degree turn when an insecure, reactionary new boss, who believed in micromanagement, scare tactics, and public flogging, came onboard. Management became insecure about keeping their jobs if they dared express their opinions. A forward-looking, convivial business turned into a maelstrom of anxiety for all except the emperor's favorites. But no one checks to see if they have the interpersonal skills needed to manage others.
Intimidated employees are scared.
They rarely complain, leaving bad supervisors undiscovered by management for a long time. Kathy Simmons practices what she preaches as the Assistant Vice President of Canada Life Assurance Company in Atlanta, where she is responsible for over 100 employees. She credits Art Sharp, her writing mentor, and Jim Freeman, her father, with providing the encouragement and inspiration needed to author many management and career articles. All rights reserved.