BLIZZARD, Shamrock Bulletin Headquarters – In our latest edition of the Dilemma Decisions column, we spoke with Advisors King Mondo and Zelly to get their take on the following question:
What would you do if another Advisor was giving the leader bad advice?
Advisor King Mondo is one of the Army of CP’s longest serving veterans, taking up his position as an Advisor nearly 18 months ago. If anyone has some insight into this dilemma, it will certainly be him:
That’s an interesting question to think about. When you’re working with people in a collaborative environment, obviously even if someone’s judgement may seem troubling to you, it’s always important to not be reactive about it (even when it’s tempting, say, in the midst of a heated discussion). It’s part of human nature to be emotional at times, and sometimes even if someone has good intentions but reacts the wrong way to something, it can do serious damage to one’s own reputation and cause more problems than solve.
So I think the first thing I’d do might be nothing initially. Why? Because observation is important to understanding people and why they feel a certain way. An important part of interacting with others is having empathy. Sometimes it’s simply more wise to listen before one speaks — especially when there’s some disagreement, rather than act on some initial feeling of frustration (which you’ll almost always regret later).
From there, I’d try my best to understand where the other person is coming from. Of course, different situations may call for more directness; sometimes you just have to feel it out. If necessary, I might also talk with the other advisor to understand what their thoughts are. I think sometimes initial wording isn’t as effective, so giving them a chance to explain their thoughts can be helpful. If it really is bad/reckless/troubling/etc. advice, it’s important to express that concern too.
Social situations such as the hypothetical you pose can be challenging & tricky to navigate. Ultimately though, the main thing to remember is that one must always show respect for their peers and try to move forward (even amidst a period of disagreement or conflict) unified & without holding grudges or animosity toward a fellow officer. After all, everything in this community of ours is meant to be a fun experience. I think reflecting on how you can work better with others is a good way to make sure we don’t lose sight of that.
Advisor Zelly is one of the newest Advisors, taking up the mantle following her retirement as a third-in-command. Here’s what she had to say on the matter:
Thats really a tough one because alot of the advice is in discussion. We all want what is best for acp always. But if i saw it i would jump in to the conversation and add my thoughts to the matter and stay in the coversation and see where things lead. Alot of times it isnt fully bad advice being shared just an idea not fully explained and understood.
Thank you to both for contributing and answers this week’s dilemma! Who will be confronted with a dilemma next week? How will they handle it?
What do YOU think? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!
Max
ACP Field Marshal & Shamrock Bulletin Reporter
