Bumblehoof trembles at being himself so he wears a mask. He feels like an imposter.
Pretenders promote organizational theater.
Organizational Theater by Bob Bumblehoof
#1. The Visionary Leader’s Disguise
Use big words but make vague plans. Bob practices gesticulations in front of the mirror.
The visionary-leader-disguise gives the appearance of wisdom where there’s confusion.
#2. The Alpha Act
Substitute volume for authority. Use a little desk pounding to add power.
Puff up when you feel small. At least you can inspire job searches.
#3. The Busy Manager Masquerade
Bob’s calendar is stuffed with endless meetings. “Slammed” is his favorite word.
Use busyness to disguise uselessness.
#4. The Hero Costume
Nothing says success like taking credit for other people’s work. Promotions based on stolen glory are the fastest way to the top.
Reality check: Leaders rise because of the greatness of others.
#5. The Donut Façade:
Bob only feels safe with a box of donuts to hand out.
“Krispy Kremes are the answer.”
The Impact of Organizational Theater
Bob hides behind costumes and teams follow his example to survive. The office of a fake leader is a macabre masquerade ball in a low-budget zombie movie.
Brené Brown calls Bumblhoof’s actions “armored behaviors.” Strategies that feel protective but keep people out.
Organizational theater blocks feedback, smothers trust and distracts talent.
Denial, defensiveness, perfectionism, pleasing, proving, and pretending make leaders small.
Get Off the Stage
- Ask questions instead of giving answers. Say, “I don’t know. What do you think?”
- Cancel one recurring meeting. Use the time to go on a listening tour.
- Instead of buying pastries, ask your team how you can provide support.
- Own mistakes before they own you.
How does organizational theater harm teams?
When should leaders fake it?
5 Ways to Practice Vulnerability for Leaders
Forget ‘Fake It Till You Make It
