"That's Before My Time" – The Failsafe Excuse

In the dynamic and often challenging world of construction management, a phrase that's all too commonly heard is "That's before my time". But let's dissect this excuse, shall we? As managers, our core responsibility, whether overseeing expansive projects or steering the ship solo on smaller tasks, is to lead, solve, and guide. This phrase, however, has become a recurring theme for evading accountability and ownership.

The Illusion of Escape

The term "That's before my time" is an illusion, a mirage of avoidance. It's similar to a manager finding a loophole in a contract to sidestep a challenge. Think of a situation where you're the only manager on a project. Would this excuse hold? Absolutely not. The same principle should apply in a team environment. Leadership is about facing the music, not changing the tune when it suits us.

The Audience

Remember, as a manager, you're always on stage. Your team, peers, and superiors are the audience, closely observing your performance. How you handle adversity speaks volumes about your character. Whether you're an assistant or a senior manager, it's crucial to drop the act of using "That's before my time". It's not just about solving a problem; it's about demonstrating your tenacity and leadership qualities.

The Inherited Challenges

Inheriting problems from a predecessor is a common scenario in management. It's easy to feel aggrieved, but the mark of a good manager is how they handle such situations. Instead of retreating behind the "That's before my time" defense, adopt a proactive stance. Acknowledge the issue, commit to understanding it, and promise a solution or a plan. This approach not only solves the problem but also builds your credibility as a professional.

When faced with a problem, particularly one inherited, the easy way out is to take a step back - think. True leadership is shown when you embrace these challenges. Break down the issue, explore solutions, and find a path forward. If you're in over your head, seeking assistance isn't a sign of weakness; dodging responsibility is. It's about being professional, showing initiative, and most importantly, being a leader in the truest sense.

The Expectations of Higher Management

When upper management is looking for answers, they're not interested in who started the fire; they're interested in who's going to put it out. Evading responsibility with a flimsy excuse only undermines your position. Show them that you're capable of creating and executing a plan. This is your chance to shine, to prove that you're not just a title-holder but a true leader.

Now: Imagine being in the shoes of a senior manager. How would you react if your team consistently responded with "That's before my time"? Frustration, disappointment, perhaps even regret for their appointments. As a manager, you should aspire to be the solution-bringer, not a part of the problem.

Own Your Role

To sum up, it's high time we banish the phrase "That's before my time" from our managerial lexicon. Embrace your challenges, own your role, and demonstrate your leadership. Show your team, your peers, and your superiors that you're a resilient problem-solver, a trustworthy leader, and the person who doesn't just face challenges but overcomes them. Be the manager who everyone knows will handle it, no matter when it originated.