Government Jobs Interview Questions
Supervisors at work, and significant others in private life, are the prime targets for their need to establish their independence by repeatedly creating and resolving power struggles.
Creating Appropriate Limits
Angelique had managed to create a power struggle with Ellen; and Ellen, like many forward thinking managers, was confused about what to do. Although she did not want to be Angelique’s parent, she did need to provide firm, matter-of-fact consequences for any team member who ignored important rules.
When Angelique experiences this discipline she can decide whether or not to give up the struggle and act like a mature adult in the workplace. Whether Ellen likes it or not, she probably can’t help Angelique become a productive member of the unit without providing these consequences.
Ellen confirmed that this was probably necessary. She knows that Angelique grew up in a wealthy, overindulgent family and that Angelique’s father purchased a house for her to live in, and she has few financial responsibilities. Ellen noted, “She has trouble setting appropriate limits for some of the patients she works with, too. Is this another sign of her need for limits?”
Once the situation becomes clear, Ellen created a plan. She decided to warn Angelique that if she does not follow the unit’s guidelines about working hours and appropriate notification, this month, she will have to punch the time clock next month, and will have written notice warning her of termination placed in her file. “If she does not follow procedures with the time clock, she will then be terminated.”
Ellen was relieved. “I want to get out of the power struggle and supervise her appropriately. She is certainly intelligent enough to keep her job if she wants it.”
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Laurie Weiss, Ph.D., Master Certified Coach
Expert Coaching for Personal and Working Relationships
Empowerment Systems, 506 West Davies Way, Littleton, CO 80120
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About The Author
Laurie Weiss, Ph.D., is an internationally known executive coach, psychotherapist, and author.
