In my column last week, I asked, "How often do you come to work overly distracted by an issue in some other part of your life?"
71.4 percent of respondents answered, "Sometimes," and 28.6 percent said "Seldom," while no one answered "Very often," "Often," or "Never."
I then asked, "How often do you expect others around you to come to work distracted by issues in their lives?"
71.4 percent replied "Sometimes," 14.3 percent said "Often," while 14.3 percent responded "Never."
Then I asked, "How often do you think about others around you having issues that might distract them from performing their duties professionally?"
57.1 percent answered "Sometimes," 28.6 percent said "Often," while 14.3 percent replied "Very often."
Next I asked, "Look at your three answers above. Do they lead you to think you have a management technique to learn?"
42.9 percent replied "Somewhat likely," 28.6 percent answered "Unlikely," 14.3 percent said "Very likely," and 14.3 percent answered "Likely."
Finally, I asked "Any other comments?"
One response: I answered somewhat likely above because I believe I always have something to learn. As a manager, I spend quite a bit of time trying to figure out the thinking and feelings of my employees. I sometimes just ask what is going on and always try to see things from their perspectives. I have had employees request to follow me when I have changed groups in the company. Maybe that says I am too easy as a boss, but I hope it means that my employees trust me and know I am looking out for them.
You may take this week's quiz here.