Due to some bad management decisions, we’re up against the wall with some unrealistic deadlines. The boss is trying to give the office an “inspirational” pep talk.
Boss: “We’re in a big hole right now, but if we all keep our noses to the grindstone and just keep digging, we’ll get out sooner or later. It’s just more work, am I right?”
Me: “Are we also expected to not have faces at the end of this metaphor?”
[Boss] pauses for a moment.
Boss: “If we just keep our eye on the ball, we can—”
Coworker #1: “How can we keep an eye on a ball if we have our noses to the grindstone and we’re digging?”
Boss: “Look, I’m just trying to inspire you guys. I don’t see you coming up with anything helpful and profound.”
Coworker #2: “If at first you don’t succeed, try management.”
That was the end of that talk, and we all got back to work!
Link: Not Always Right
Years ago, I was on a project that was behind schedule. The project manager decided that daily status meetings were the solution. Unfortunately, he also loved to hear himself talk, so our daily status meetings took 4 hours. I don't know if he ever figured out why we were behind schedule.
ReplyDeleteHope there were severe financial penalties on this contract for late delivery.
DeleteAnon, so typical.
DeleteAnon, give them tariffs.
DeleteTruer words..., as they say
ReplyDeleteedutcher, ain't dat da truf.
DeleteBoy, you sure got that right! Can't do the job, get promoted over those who can... why we are screwed as a country!
ReplyDeleteCederq, at some point in time upper management was convinced by someone that street (College) smarts was better than OJT.
DeleteI like the motto at NASA, where I work: "The floggings will continue until the morale improves".
ReplyDeleteMike, true story .... they believe that shit.
DeleteAlso, check out the arms on the guy sitting second from the right (as we look at it)!
ReplyDeleteChris
Chris, LOL! ... hell he's all screwed up, plus I found more.
Delete