Tracy;

Regardless of where I have worked in the military or civilian life it seems that the persons who do the grunt work know the reality of an organization. Additionally, such persons are fully capable of defining, and resolving any and all outstanding issues. Those in charge are normally “out to lunch”. In civilian life it is the three Martini lunch syndrome. As a friend of mine stated about the difference between management and workers, “we just do not understand the ‘big picture’”! Management has to promote itself and stir the pot to let you know who is in charge. At times it can be humorous but not often enough.

Occasionally you will meet someone in management who is a straight shooter, and really is an asset to everyone. Within a large organization this is most apparent. Have you ever noticed one department shines while others drag?

One of my thoughts of life: It does not matter how “bad” the company you work for is if you have a good manager. You can work for the “best” company in the world and if your manager is a jerk, you may as well be in hell! :)

Tom


>I got a 'chuckle' out of your post. :o) I worked as a government civilian employee for many years (after leaving the military). After I finally left (June 2001) and took outside employment, I learned that the one person who was the joke of an office group (for never knowing anything, getting things wrong, etc) became the manager. Just figures... People who know nothing and don't want to learn are promoting the same... seen it too many times!
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>Tracy
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>>I have never and will never accept a management position. I am content in my work and what I do. I cannot be lured into management by any amount of money. The main reason is that management in the government needs a major overhaul of their system. Employees need to be fired occaisionally and not rewarded for being characters in a Dilbert comic routine.
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>>>Bret;
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>>>On the subject of Workman's Compensation, an employee that worked for me went into an area of the manufacturing plant where he did not belong. He claimed he fell down and was out of work for six months and received Workman's Compensation during that period. After returning to work he sued the company and me. My company (a large corporation) provided no assistance to me not even advice from the companies attorneys. As a supervisor I had to provide my own legal representation. Not a pleasant memory and a reminder as to why I will never again accept a management position.
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>>>Tom