The Moment: Not Being Informed

Dear Anne Marie: As a project manager, I interface with many other departments. The effort I make to keep everyone informed is not reciprocated. In fact, decisions affecting my department are often made without my input or knowledge. I'd let it go if it weren't for the fact that important details are missed and more work (often mine!) is needed to fix it. What can I do?
   — Carla G.

Dear Carla: You are a master when it comes to building strong relationships. You are loyal, trustworthy and generous. You gladly keep people informed because you know that strong, healthy relationships are at the heart of any organization.

Managing The Moment

The "Moment to Manage" is your feeling of submission. You continually extend yourself to people who disregard you, leaving you embarrassed, angry and overworked. It is understandable that you find yourself feeling resigned to the status quo, wondering how (if at all) you can change things. Chronic submission and resignation lead to "not caring": a condition you want to avoid at all cost.

The Game Plan

First, make sure you get information every time you give information. Each time you provide an update, ask for one in return. If nothing is offered, emphasize that you want to be kept informed of events before decisions are made.

Second, keep a detailed account of time spent fixing problems. Your time is not free; it is costing the organization money when you stop what you are doing to fix problems. Facts—especially "money facts"—can be very influential.

Third, establish a procedure for making and implementing decisions. In collaboration with your colleagues, create a system for executing decisions. The system will then control the decision-making process, thus averting the consequences of impulsive, emotional actions.

Fourth, keep your boss informed about this problem. It is important that your boss knows the reason that so much of your time is spent fixing problems. He may have specific advice for you on how to handle this issue. You need to find out what that is.

Finally, set your own standard and follow it. Continue to nurture your relationships by keeping people informed. It will make you feel good to do what you know is right, even if others don't reciprocate.