Managing managers can be like trying to herd cats – it can be a challenge, but it’s crucial to keeping the organization on track. Senior management needs to help their managers reach their full potential, rather than hinder them. After all, nobody wants to be the one to blame for a bunch of unhappy cats!

One thing senior managers do that’s like trying to put a cat in a bath is micromanaging. Like cats, managers need their space to be creative and explore. Micromanagement can make them feel like they’re being cornered, leading to disengagement and a lot of hissing and clawing. Rather than micromanaging, allow them to find their own way and trust that they know what they’re doing – that’s why you have them!

Another thing that senior managers do is not provide clear expectations and feedback. It’s confusing and frustrating. Managers need to understand what’s expected of them and what changes they need to make to improve. Without direction, they might run around in circles chasing their own tail.

Strategies for Cat Managers

So, what can senior managers do to help their managers succeed? Here are a few strategies:

• Trust your managers: Let them be cats and give them the autonomy they need to make decisions and take risks. After all, they’re smart and can figure things out independently.
• Set clear expectations: Be clear about what you want them to achieve and how their performance will be measured. Don’t be like the red dot – elusive and always just out of reach.
• Provide regular feedback: Let them know when they have done a good job and when they need to improve – and, good or bad, be clear about why! Don’t be like a mouse in the wall – silent and unresponsive.
• Develop their skills: Offer them opportunities to learn new things and develop their existing skills. Give them the tools and training they need to be the best cats they can be.
• Recognize their achievements: Give them a good scratching behind the ears and let them know they’re doing a great job. Cats love to be rewarded, and so do managers!

Managing managers can be like herding cats, but with a little humor and some patience, it can be a rewarding experience. When senior managers trust, guide, and reward their managers, they can help them reach their full potential and make the organization purr with success.