The Lord of the Manor

Are you the Lord of the Manor -- or do you work for the Lord of the Manor?

This idea popped into my head as I was sitting on a beautiful veranda in Carnernos, one of my favorite wine regions in California. It was lovely -- sunshine, gentle breeze, fine wine, good company. Life was perfect.

As I looked out over the vineyards I saw workers in the distance. I imagined myself as Lord of the Manor, looking out over my domain, the land to which I was entitled . . . looking out at the workers who had the pleasure of toiling on my land, also enjoying the breeze and the sunshine and the wonderful experience of the vineyard. Oh, I was such as wonderful and benevelent Lord for allowing these people to share in my pleasures and to also be well-compensated for the experience.

In reality, the workers were sweating, their hands were dry, cracked and bleeding, bugs were biting them, their backs hurt, and they were exhausted by the work.

The thought exercise was not lost on me, as I realized that my fantasy mimics the perspective of some company owners and bosses in modern organizations.

If you're a "Lord of the Manor," get a grip and realize what your fantasy is doing to your loyal associates day in and day out. Can you change?

If you're working for a "Lord of the Manor," ask yourself, "Is this the kind of employer-employee relationship I really want?" You don't have to remain in servitude -- you deserve better.

I, Chuck Hall, am not actually a "Lord of the Manor." I work in my own business as a coach and consultant, helping leaders lead better and teams team better. I'm always happy to talk with others who are interested in better leadership and better teaming -- [email protected], 267-640-5932.