In Defense of the Distrusting Manager (sort of)

The Manager question of “If I can’t see them how do I know they’re really working…?” is typically met by most with anger and frustrated eye rolls. It appears an old school, industrial-era mindset type question reeking of control and distrust. But is this just surface level?

Is what was asked, what was meant?

Sure in some cases yes, but what if it’s more:

“How do I know they’re really working on what’s important now?”
“How do I know they’re really working with the best tools?”
“How do I know they’re really working with the right people?”
“How do I know they’re really working with the most efficient process?”
“How do I know they’re really working in the right direction?”

These questions certainly change the connotation to something more sincere as it’s not about control it’s about communication. However, if a manager doesn’t know THESE answers, then they need to be better about having regular, open and honest conversations. And now, more than ever since seeing isn’t quite as easy.