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Neela 🌶️'s avatar

Had a manager who actually asked me that last question - 'if you could do anything in the world.'

It turned out he was just trying to determine if I was a flight risk. The questions only work if you're actually prepared to do something with the answers.

Happy Tuesday Michael.

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Communication Intelligence's avatar

No doubt: asking such a question has to be done with sincerity and caring.

Asking to determine if someone is a flight risk or to covertly encourage and steer someone out of the organization (that happens too) is not in the spirit of what Sho Dewan is communicating and respectful to the team member.

Out of curiosity, because that's me, was Neela, in that particular situation you described, a flight risk? Was he reading the tea leaves correctly?

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Neela 🌶️'s avatar

In hindsight, yes. But not in the way he framed it. I wasn’t trying to run. I was underutilised at the time.

A more honest follow-up might’ve led to retention.

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Communication Intelligence's avatar

That is very interesting what you mentioned about the lost opportunity, if his desire was retention. You and I know that too often happens, poor communication, a weak approach, prevent a sustained relationship. Thank you for sharing your experience, for me and anyone else who might read it.

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Neela 🌶️'s avatar

Yes everything would be puppies and rabbits if people communicated well but it’s not even their fault. They just don’t understand how…

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