# Silence and the Uber Manager By:: [[Brian Heath]] 2023-08-09 As one progresses in their career with typical organizations, one will uncover the value of being quiet. One may even put a sticky note on their monitor reminding them to be quiet. This reminder exists as opinions within organizations are rarely sought and valued. It is often better to just be quiet and say nothing. Or better yet, say something that means nothing. For example, use the following business jargon: synergies, opportunities, directionally correct, engagement, etc. These words mean nothing in the business world. They are vague-specific. Most managers do not tolerate outright challenges or even subtle asks for clarity. Even when one convinces their direct manager of a different way to view the world, one will encounter your manager's manager, and the battle will repeat. This Uber Manager has no affiliation with you and is further entrenched in the status quo. After all, it's how they got to be the Uber Manager. So, do you have the fortitude to fight your manager's manager? Let's say you win that battle. Do you have the fortitude to fight with the next manager? The problem with modern organizations is there are managers upon managers until you become the Uber Manager you claim to be against. As one climbs, the further from the ground one gets. Climbing the ladder or playing the game changes those who play. Being quiet allows one to maintain their dual identities to be reconciled outside of work. Too many take this path, and it rips one apart. It's time for a new game of organization. Down with the Uber Manager as the agent of our identity. Choose a different organizational game. #### Related Items [[Management]] [[Progress]] [[Identity]] [[Self-Actualization]] [[Metamodernism]] [[Strategy]] [[Organizational Analytics]]