Step 1. Why are you here?

Strategy begins by defining your objectives. Why are you doing this? To improve your team’s performance? To create a more innovative culture? Because you feel lost as a

manager? Write your answer in the space below. As you make decisions throughout this exercise, make sure they map back to the goals you define.

Step 2. Why might they hate me?

Brainstorm. What are some reasons that you have hated managers? Write down the ones you suspect your employees may feel about you.

Step 3. Why do they hate you?

Create a quick mind map with YOU at the center. Start each branch of your map with a reason they hate you. Rather than simple word association, ask “why?” for each

word you put on your map. Write the three end points that resonate most strongly with you below.

Step 4. What are you going to do about it?

For each of the reasons you’ve listed above, come up with some possible tactics that might address them. Don’t look for silver bullets. Write down a few specific tangible

ideas that might make a positive directional impact in the areas you described.

Keep in touch: Adam Kleinberg • @adamkleinberg • adam@tractionco.com • 415.962.5823

The Why-people-hate-you-and-what-your-gonna-do-about-it Strategic Worksheet

YOU...

… don’t leave them alone

micromanager!

don’t trust them

no experience

...leave them alone too much

trust them to do good job

...don’t follow own rules

they’re smart

smart ≠ informed

sad face

Do as I say, not as I do.

menial tasks for menial people

What a JERK!

...don’t follow through

… say something. It’s not true.

Liar.

Tweet stupid things.

You’re a twit.

YOU...