This may lead to the managers feeling unable to trust anyone and their response is to be constantly on their guard. The resulting sense of isolation then only increases the risk of their becoming paranoid.
How can top executives cope with this isolation and avoid falling victim to the negative feelings others often project onto them? According to management-issues.com, which draws on the website of the INSEAD business school, they can do the following things:
Be aware of the risks
It is important to remember that even top executives have weaknesses which they themselves are unaware of. Furthermore, their position involves a huge emotional strain. For new people in the role, mentoring can help.
Build a network of support
Chances are that top executives don’t wish to overwhelm their families and friends by talking endlessly about their professional concerns. Therefore, they need to develop a support network where they can share their concerns and perhaps ask for help too.
- They could meet their peers, possibly at conferences or training sessions for top leaders. At such sessions they can meet the right people who are outside their chain of command.
- They might hire consultants or coaches who offer a safe space for discussing the challenges they face. Furthermore, people from outside the company can give them frank feedback.
Be grateful
By expressing gratitude to people around them, the process of isolation can be slowed down. Gratitude is a powerful tool: it fosters prosocial behaviour and at the same time encourages a sense of belonging. It also helps to establish a culture in which people are not afraid to express disagreement when appropriate.
-jk-