Understanding Why People Become Horrible as Bosses and YouTube Influencers

Over the years, I have observed a concerning trend: a great colleague who becomes a manager and then a terrible boss due to a lack of interpersonal and communication skills. A prime example is a colleague who was a standout manager but ultimately failed as a second-line manager because of his poor communication abilities. Such experiences have led me to coin a term, “Director's Disease,” which describes the phenomenon of capable individuals transforming into insufferable leaders when they ascend to higher positions, often characterized by arrogance and neglect of their subordinates.

Why Some Bosses Fail

A critical responsibility of a boss is to focus on the big picture and make essential decisions. In high-stakes environments, like the military, a battalion commander, for instance, needs to focus on key strategic decisions that can affect the entire war effort. Similarly, in a corporate setting, a manager needs to look beyond minor issues to prioritize the future and well-being of the organization and its employees. A good boss should balance discretion and decisiveness, demonstrating empathy and understanding while recognizing their role as a leader requiring tough decisions.

The disparity between a first-line manager, who is closer to the day-to-day operations, and a third-line manager, who oversees higher-level decisions and has a broader view, can often lead to misalignment. When a reliable first-line manager is promoted to a higher position, they may struggle to adapt, leading to dissatisfaction among their subordinates. The challenge lies in the realization that bosses cannot always please everyone, as their decisions will inevitably have a ripple effect on different individuals within the organization.

The Abuse of Power: A Common Phenomenon

When anyone is given power, there is a disturbing tendency to abuse it. This is not exclusive to bosses alone; it extends to other influential roles such as YouTube influencers and public figures. Power can indeed go to one's head, and many individuals do not possess the proper skills to handle it responsibly.

A notable example of this phenomenon is “The Director's Disease.” While some directors can be excellent, they often become overbearing and egotistical once they reach a certain level of power. This can manifest in a variety of ways, from micromanagement to outright neglect of their subordinates. Unfortunately, such behaviors can easily alienate team members and negatively impact the organization's morale and productivity.

Youtubers as Examples of the Abuse of Power

Similarly, YouTube influencers often face the same challenges. Initially, many are well-liked and respected for their content and personality. However, as they gain more power and influence, some turn into tyrants or become detached from their audience. The sudden rise in authority and wealth can lead to a loss of humility and the ability to remain connected with their fan base.

Avoiding the pitfalls of power involves self-awareness, strong communication, and empathy. Influencers and bosses alike need to recognize the responsibility that comes with their roles and work to cultivate a supportive and inclusive environment. Regular feedback, maintaining open lines of communication, and making decisions that consider the long-term impact on the organization will help prevent the descent into arrogance or dictatorial behavior.

In conclusion, understanding the dynamics of boss behavior and the potential for abuse of power is crucial. By recognizing these challenges and working on personal growth, individuals in positions of authority can avoid becoming a cautionary tale like those infamous "horrible bosses," and instead, inspire and lead with integrity and kindness.

Understanding these issues can help us appreciate the complexities of leadership and power dynamics, and perhaps, foster a more empathetic and balanced approach to management and content creation.