a toy model of management

made w/ midjourney

X + Y = Z is the rough equation

where 

• X = manager (effort) ; 

• Y = report (effort) ; 

• Z = result to be achieved

It’s much easier to run this equation and sort out what X and Y should represent when z is a constant or at least temporarily defined. Usually, you hold z constant by setting a goal.

There is something that looks and sounds obvious when you strip management down this far, yet it’s very easy for managers to forget when they’re managing people IRL. There’s a third thing besides you and the other person – the thing you’re trying to accomplish. The result you want to achieve.

That third thing is the reason both of you are in the equation. It’s what your work is for. It’s the priority.

-ben