A high wire act with HR as the balancing pole
True some people make it look easy but is it really as difficult and demanding as they would have us believe? I have heard it compared to walking a tightrope, a balancing act between competing priorities, between delivering performance targets and keeping staff motivated, between living within financial means and meeting the boards/senior management’s expectations. But is it really as hazardous, as scary or as skilful as tightrope walking?
I do believe there are some similarities between a tightrope walker and a manager they both require courage. A manager has to be prepared to take responsibility, which means being decisive and willing to make controversial and unpopular decisions. They need to recognise they are ultimately accountable which involves taking the flack if things go wrong. This can feel scary.
The most daring tightrope walkers take on a truly inspiring challenge between towering peaks with no safety net, never the less you still have to admire the skill of those who chose less death defying heights and a safety net. It’s the same with senior managers some are truly inspiring leaders who risk it all , others are no less skilful for the fact they have a financial safety net.
The difference between a manager and a senior manager / leader is how far they have to fall if they make a misstep. To this end even the most daring tightrope walkers carry a balancing pole to help them as the tightrope sways or a sudden gust of wind unbalances them. Not to dissimilar to the role of HR in helping managers should they stumble.
Tightrope walking and management both take skill and years of practice if they are to operate at a great high without a safety net both can inspire us and both need help keeping their balance.
Blair McPherson former Director author and blogger www.blairmcpherson.co.uk
