#198: The modern Trojan Horse

Last month I was told to update my thinking. Specifically, my thinking about the Trojan horse.

I had explained to a group that at least one senior person in the hierarchy of Troy was suspicious of that horse, but he was ignored.

When you consider a Trojan horse incident in your organization, you can tell with hindsight that one of the following situations existed at the time:

1) No-one spotted the threat.
2) Someone did suspect something, but kept quiet.
3) Someone did suspect and did speak out, but was not heard.
4) Someone did suspect and was heard, but was ignored.

Obviously, it is difficult to do anything if no-one spotted the threat. But a key aspect of leadership is to make sure that every voice is heard and heeded. If not, then be ready to welcome a Trojan horse into your organization.

Well, that’s when I was told to add a fifth point. Someone did suspect, was heard... and was fired for speaking out.

Ouch!


I’m james@nonsenseatwork.com

Copyright: 2008 James Henry McIntosh

James can be heard on Public Radio, 88.9 FM WCVE, Richmond VA.
Monday - 7:19am and Saturday - 8:19am