How leadership can lift people up… or knock the wind right out of them.
Let’s be honest: being a manager isn’t easy. You’re juggling deadlines, personalities, budgets, and that one printer that breaks every Monday at 9 a.m. (Coincidence? We think not.) Most managers are genuinely trying their best. But sometimes, certain behaviors can turn a well-meaning “manager” into what employees jokingly, or not so jokingly, call a “damager.”
The CEO is like the conductor of a chaotic orchestra. When things go right, the melody is inspiring. When things go wrong, the noise echoes all the way to LinkedIn posts about “toxic culture.” But beneath the suits, strategy decks, and confident smiles, the CEO also carries the weight of every decision that shapes or shakes the company. Let’s explore the difference in a simple, friendly way.
🌱 The Manager: The Builder
A good manager is like a gardener. They create the right conditions for people to grow. They may not get everything perfect, but they try to:
Communicate clearly
Everyone knows what’s expected, and confusion stays at a minimum.
Support their team
They check in, offer help, and actually listen (not the “uh-huh, sure” kind of listen).
Give credit where it’s due
They understand that praising others does not make them smaller. It makes the team stronger.
Respect work-life balance
They do not send 3 a.m. emails “just to have it off my mind.”
When these behaviors show up, the workplace becomes lighter, calmer, and more productive. People feel safe to speak up, share ideas, and take ownership. And the company benefits from lower turnover, happier employees, and better results.
🔧 The “Damager”: The Unintentional Wrecking Crew
Not all “damagers” are villains twirling mustaches. Sometimes, they don’t even realize the impact of their actions. But certain habits can chip away at morale faster than free donuts disappear in the break room. Some “damaging” behaviors include:
Micromanaging everything
If you watch someone’s work like it is a live-streamed reality show, they won’t trust themselves or you.
Ignoring employee concerns
When people feel unheard, they stop speaking up. That is when mistakes grow legs.
Playing favorites
Nothing ruins teamwork faster than the “golden child” phenomenon.
Being unpredictable
One day friendly, the next day storm clouds. Employees should not need a weather app to predict their manager’s mood.
Most of the time, these managers simply need awareness, not shame. With a bit of reflection (and maybe a good night’s sleep), they can shift back to being constructive leaders.
💡 How to Avoid Becoming a “Damager”
Whether you’re a manager now or hope to become one, here is some simple advice:
- Ask for feedback, even if it feels awkward.
- Share information. Mystery might be fun in movies, but not at work.
- Encourage small wins. Big successes start with tiny steps.
- Stay human. Saying “I don’t know” or “I made a mistake” builds trust.
- Lead by example. People follow what you are doing, not what you say.
🌟 Good Management = A Better Company
When managers lead with clarity, empathy, and fairness, everything improves:
- Employees are more motivated.
- Productivity rises naturally (not through fear).
- Teams communicate better.
- Innovation grows more freely.
- The company becomes a place people actually want to work.
Good management is not about power. It is about partnership. And while no one is perfect, a little awareness can prevent someone from becoming a “damager” and help them grow into a leader people admire.
Moral of the story:
A manager guides the team toward success.
A “damager” accidentally trips everyone along the way.
Most of us have a bit of both inside. It is the daily choices that make the difference. So let’s choose kindness, clarity, and good leadership… and maybe keep that Monday-morning printer in check too.