I chose to use the cartoon version to depict a general character of the “Principal” or “Head Master/Mistress” of a school. I make a distinction with the real life School Principals, who I have immense respect for.
The creators of the cartoon seek to portray the school officials as people who follow the book and read the Riot Act to learners. They are not flexible and will be disinclined to examine the pros and cons of a situation.
As corporate governance actors, we consistently applaud initiative, innovation, flexibility and pragmatism as indicators of good practice. The evolution of leadership as a prominent part of behavioral science corroborates this point.
Have you experienced rigidity, lack of empathy and consideration for human and work welfare within your team? What do you think motivates it and how has your organisation addressed it?
With particular reference to the team leaders and professionals in charge of employee welfare, it is important that we begin to identify the differences between “employee welfare” and “human welfare” and how they can be blended to promote a holistically conducive environment for actors in the organisation.
Actors easily default into the text of rules without recourse to establishing intent and interpretation of the instrument, especially when they seek to apply it. The said text is designed to be effectively implemented and serve both the employer who is a juristic person and employee who is a human being.
By way of illustration, in my profession, there are instances when the court would admit and consider evidence of extenuating circumstances in a case to assist it arrive at a just decision. For instance, whereas it may be established on the face of it, that a party acted in contravention of a contract there may be evidence adduced that shows that it was because of a natural disaster, which evidence will operate to excuse the party from liability.
In corporate governance relationships, I am of the view that this principle may apply in certain instances. It requires actors to possess and utilize certain skills to make the best out of a situation.
For example, in contemplating corporate administrative action, do you:-
1. take time to reflect on how you will deliver?
2. consider the timeline within which you are supposed to act and how missing it will impact the employee and the organisation?
3. consider how you would have liked to be treated if the roles were reversed?
4. consider the level of responsibility and accountability attributable to you for the action?
5. consider your action as inspiring confidence in you as a responsible actor?
The answers to these simple questions should be able to answer whether “Cartoon School Principal” type corporate actors are desirable elements in an organisation.
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