94: What to Do When Managing Without Authority

You simply can’t manage without the appropriate amount of authority. In this show, I walk you through six things you can do if you find yourself in this situation. In addition, this is a good check-point for ourselves as leaders to ensure we aren’t putting others into this situation.

The most important thing to know? You can’t manage without authority.

1. What’s likely the scenario?

• Poor communication?
• Organizational politics?
• Discomfort area of the leader?
• Is it you? Do you really need authority in this area?

2. Watch and record what happens (or anticipate what could happen).

3. Connect your objectives and evidence to the bottom-line or organizational mission

• Almost always there is a cost factor
• What does it keep you from being able to do?
• Speaks to the logical minds of many leaders (task-oriented, people-oriented)

4. Make the request

• Be clear on the problem you are trying to solve and what you need
• Have a plan (timeline, steps, etc.)
• Show evidence that you have a plan
• Be prepared to get something different than you asked for – and ask yourself if it still solves the problem?

5. If necessary, ask to be removed from that project/responsibility

6. If all else fails, find a new position or employer

Here’s a quick check-in for all of us: Are we putting anyone into this situation right now?

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