Outsmarting your Manager in today’s Corporate Communication world means inviting problems to invade your peace of mind and professional peace as well.

Long ago, I joined an organization into fashion. We were called for a meeting with the CEO, and a media plan for a new launch was being discussed. I was new to the organization and #2 in position. After listening to all that was said by my Manager, I could strongly feel something was missing, and the media plan was turning out to be like a self-appraisal.

As I was completely engrossed in my thoughts, my Manager suddenly asked me, “Pavan, what do you say — this plan will click?” Her tone was more like — “It is perfect and I should only endorse it.”

Before I could say a word, the CEO asked me too — “Do you have anything to add, Pavan?”

I was confused — “to add” or “not to add” was not the point. Do I need to agree? was the point.

But I remained silent.

Which meant “Yes” and “No” both.

The media plan bombed, and we both were called by the CEO to explain. This time, my Manager was silent and so was I. We were scolded ruthlessly. My Manager was asked to leave and I followed quietly.

As we came out of the room, my Manager asked me, “Do you think the plan was not right — was it so bad?”

I simply said, “You have been here for long, so I really thought you know things better than me. But actually speaking, the plan needed a revisit.”

That was it.

My Manager gave me a killer look, fumed — uttered a few words which I could listen yet pretended not to listen — (Abuse, of course).

My Manager left the corridor like a rocket.

For many days, we didn’t speak. For many days, my Manager didn’t respond to my morning wishes. For many days, I was not called into meetings. I was isolated.

This was my first lesson in diplomacy: Even if you know more than your Manager — Never Believe it. Never Say it. And of course, Never Declare it.

Most Managers would not want to be advised by the team member whom they interviewed and recommended for selection.

Written in the interest of all #MTs (Management Trainees), Fresh #Graduates, Fresh #Communication #Professionals and over-enthusiastic #communicators.