In every book on management, there seems to be a section on providing positive feedback or praise to individuals or groups that you manage.  This is a necessary form of recognition and reward, a "pat on the back", that if done properly (not forced, but genuine) can be a very effective tool to help motivate people.  I truly believe that people that I lead need this encouragement often for two reasons:  1) To know that I am paying attention to what they are doing, and 2) That they feel appreciated for their hard work which will encourage them to work hard in the future.  I get all of that, and subscribe that this is a vital management tool.

 

This post isn't about praise that a manager gives to those they manage, it's about managers receiving praise  from those that they manage.  I know that there are managers that expect and encourage the spotlight to be on them and to get this praise often (even if it is forced). 

 

However, I am not one of those managers.  Instead, I get the opposite reaction.  I get VERY uncomfortable taking credit or accepting positive feedback or praise.  I never used to feel this way.  Before I got into management, I loved to get positive feedback.   I can even get praise from others (such as readers of this blog sending me the kind emails) and feel comfortable and enjoy getting it.  I just feel awkward about getting it from those that I work with.

 

Why do I feel this way?   I guess because I don't want the spotlight to be on me.  I don't want the focus to be on me.  I feel very comfortable for others to pay no attention to the "man behind the curtain".   I see myself as just the facilitator, the enabler, the traffic cop.  I would be nothing if it weren't for the efforts and skills of those that I manage.   I know that I play a part in their success, because they need me (I hope) as much as I need them, and I can give them the direction and guidance they need along the way.

When I do get recognition from those on my team, I know I should appreciate it but I don't want to crave or expect it.  I also know that my part, while significant at times, is just a small part in the machine.  Everybody in the organization is that machine.  I just help keep it well maintained.  They make the engine work.

 

So, I'm curious, am I alone in feeling this way?  Do other managers avoid praise for the same reasons?  Or...should I just get over it and accept it as it is.   Let me know...