Top 7 Frustrations of Middle Managers
Organizations rise on the shoulders of middle managers. Their success usually signals organizational success. They stand between talk and action.
Top 7 Frustrations of Middle Managers
#1. Responsibility Without Authority
“I’m accountable for results but don’t have the authority to make decisions. I can’t hire, fire, or influence strategy.”
Tip: Push more control to the people you depend on.
#2. Lack of Communication with Higher Ups
“What were they thinking? Everything is in generalities. Priorities shift. Yesterday’s work was a waste.”
Tip: Seek input from the people actually doing the work.
#3. Conflicting Demands
“I get squeezed from both sides. Top brass pulls one way. Front-line employees pull the other.”
Tip: Train managers how to say hard things. Expect top brass to invite pushback.
#4. Change Fatigue
“Another new initiative—really? I’m tired of the flavor of the day.”
Tip: Acknowledge that some leaders are feathering their own nests at the expense of others. Ask higher ups what mid-level and front-line people suggested.
Explore change from the bottom up, not just the top down.
#5. Lack of Recognition
“Senior leaders get the credit; we get the blame.”
Tip: When giving recognition and bonuses ask, “Who actually made this happen?”
#6. Managing Poor Performers
“I can’t get rid of a toxic employee. HR processes often make work harder.”
Tip: Begin performance management sooner. Change tactics sooner. Don’t have the same conversation more than twice.
#7. Too Much Paperwork and Bureaucracy
“I’m overwhelmed with reports, approvals, and meetings instead of leading and developing people.”
Tips: Find out who reads the reports and what information they actually use. Delegate authority to the lowest possible level.
A Final Word
Middle managers carry the responsibility for implementation. Build structures around them. When you help them succeed, organizations flourish.
What are the top frustrations of middle managers?
How can middle managers make their lives better?
The Future of Organizations According to the Wall Street Journal
In Praise of Middle Managers HBR
