Invite Them to the Party. Instead of trying to avoid a Diminisher, invite him to join you. This will help her identify the areas where “you got this” and do not need her well-intentioned rescue. Help ease her mind by demonstrating your strengths or genius. For example, if your boss demonstrates Rescuer tendencies, they may be concerned that deadlines or objectives won’t be met. In these situations, interpret their behaviors in a positive light to understand what is important to them and therefore driving their behaviors.

If you find yourself in a diminishing situation hopefully one of these strategies can help you become one of Liz’s “Invincibles” – those who continue to utilize their greatest intelligence, despite being surrounded by diminishing behaviors:Īssume Positive Intent. You may be one of the lucky ones whose Diminisher has a positive intent – those leaders we commonly refer to as Accidental Diminishers. The most important and central conclusion: “You can be a Multiplier while working for a Diminisher.” Below are some of the strategies that can help you with your Diminisher. When conducting leadership workshops and sharing Multipliers practices, the most frequent question I am asked is, “How do I deal with my diminishing boss?”Īs part of our ongoing Multipliers research, led by Liz Wiseman, we have identified several strategies for dealing with Diminishers. Tragically Diminishers deplete their organization of engagement, morale and crucial intelligence and capability.

The strict hierarchies and downward pressure found within most government organizations can be a breeding ground for diminishing behaviors. As part of the research process for these posts I have had the privilege of connecting with many government leaders who focus on utilizing and growing all the intelligence around them – true Multipliers with truly inspiring stories.īut let’s face reality government work is not all rainbows and unicorns. Over the last few months I have enjoying sharing key practices of Multipliers leadership with the GovLoop community.

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