This post reflects earlier thinking and context. It’s preserved for reference but no longer represents the primary focus of AlignTech Solutions.
This is the second article in our series entitled Managers: The Good and the Bad.
Poor managers like the Arrogant Bastard represent a real risk to the companies for which they work. It is not really OK with an arrogant bastard when women take jobs traditionally held by men or when foreigners take jobs formerly held by Americans — despite merit, education and supply/demand issues. And lest it seem that I am targeting the typical white American male, this type of manager exists in every country, in every religion, among all races and in both genders.
They are legendary. And they have the power to make their employees feel horrible day after day.
Characteristics of Arrogant Bastards
| Archetype(s): | Pacesetting, Commanding | ||
| MBTI Range: | Any | ||
| How to Spot: | There are several things to watch for:
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| Behaviors: |
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| Reason(s) to Hire: | The most common reason for a company to hire a specialist like this is to “clean house” without incurring unemployment claims. Why do this? Say a company wants to become very attractive to would-be buyers. Here’s one recipe:
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| Risks: |
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Final Thoughts
So who thrives under the rule of an arrogant bastard? Yes Men (and Women).
Questions
- Do these types of managers know what they’re like?
- Will human resource departments eventually weed out managers like this or will their behaviors be overlooked whenever their perceived value is high?
- Can interviewees spot this sort of manager BEFORE accepting a job?
