Markus Winkler from pixabay.
Promoting to a manager has its perks but also comes with legal pitfalls. Owning the whole” is a phrase I learned some time ago and the concept can help you avoid those pitfalls. What is it? It’s when you go all in and understand not only what you’re doing but why you’re doing it. I submit that if we can convey the idea of owning the whole, our workplaces can become where we get to work, not where we have to work. Why is that important? Simple, when we believe in and enjoy what we do, we start to own it. When we own something, we work harder to protect it.
What it means
The concept is pretty simple. It means understanding that your actual job is only one part of your role in the organization. For new managers, this can be hard to wrap your head around. When you got promoted, you may have envisioned filling out schedules, assigning work projects, and getting the “work” done. But it’s more than that. You are now the “face” of the company. You represented the company in an unofficial role. When people saw you, they didn’t think of the company – you were simply someone who worked there. When those same people see you now, they see someone who can be held accountable for what the company stands for and how it conducts business. The increased accountability comes with increased liability. Welcome to owning the legal whole.
What it Looks Like
I recently interviewed Employment Attorney Zaylore Stout on my podcast “Management Matters” about this. and for new managers, he talked about the fact that you now have responsibilities to not only your team, but also to your higher ups. The responsibility to those above you include keeping the organization out of legal trouble by making sure your interactions don’t violate company policies, along with local, state and federal law. What are some of the pitfalls you might encounter:
Pitfall #1 Managing former peers
Those Friday Night Happy Hours need to stop. Why? Because if you are aware of offsite incidents between coworkers, you have to address it. If you are present and do nothing, it’s even worse. The result could end up in a lawsuit against the organization and in some cases, against you personally.
Pitfall #2 Not treating everyone equally
Think about it. David is your best friend and routinely comes into work 10-15 late but you don’t say anything. You know he has to drop his kids off at school so you’re willing to cut him some slack. Joe, on the other hand is a new employee and you want to set him up for success by making sure he understands company policy. The first time he comes in late, you take him aside and quote policy about timeliness. You may be setting him up for success but you’re setting the company up for a discrimination lawsuit.
Owning the whole means understanding what your organization is all about. It’s not about making the best widgets or being the best at whatever. Avoiding pitfalls means understanding your role in ensuring legal compliance throughout the organization.
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