(From The Next Big Thing) So what are the mechanisms that translate being a jerk into being a
poor decision-maker? Jerks tend to think their own perspectives are the
only ones worth considering, but good decisions require serious
consideration of alternatives. Jerks think they're never wrong, but
good decisions require acknowledging and learning from mistakes. Jerks
are consumed with petty resentments and grievances, but good decisions
require clear-headed, objective thinking. Jerks alienate other people,
but good decisions require collaboration across a social network (as a recent MIT Sloan Management Review article by Rob Cross and Bob Thomas suggests.) This falls short of a complete description of either jerkdom or decision excellence, but you get the picture. Jerks often seem to get ahead in firms and advance through the
ranks, but that's a dangerous phenomenon. If you want good decisions in
your organization, don't hire, promote, or retain jerks. (photo by BotheredByBees)
Comment -- Everyone acknowledges that jerks make bad employees, but what if you look in the mirror and discover that the jerk is...you! Even in this difficult Michigan economy, it's hard to find and keep good workers who will help your company grow. Sometimes the one best thing that retains employees is a positive, supportive working environment. It's hard to have that if you, the boss, acts like a jerk. Michael Rogers
