Sucking Up

At what point is it ok to suck up? When I found out that my job was going to be eliminated, I had a few choices of how to behave. I could be all pissed off, moaning and groaning all day long, doing the least amount of work possible, just to stay employed. Or, I could continue on, business as usual, demanding the very best of myself and my team. Or, I could start to suck up to anyone and everyone that might help me extend my time here at BMX.

I have expressed my thoughts on some of the management staff that I deal with. Some of the people I work with are absolutely great managers. They truly seem to care about what does and does not happen here. That is not to say that there are some other managers who could care less. It is apparent though, to me, that some managers are doing what they need to do to get their job done and keep complaints to a minimum. But beyond that, their desire and drive to excel, to go above and beyond, that I don't always see.

So far, I am the only department manager who is facing unemployment. There are a couple of other managers who do not know their future beyond the tasks they are currently responsible for. So they too are a bit nervous about the future. But for now, all of these managers could be an opportunity to me, an opportunity to remain employed, just a little bit longer. So, even though I disagree with some of the ways and processes, is it wrong to suck up to these managers in order to stay employed?

I have always been vocal about those people who use others to get ahead in life. But as the economy gets worse, and more and more people are unemployed, it has become apparent that the best way to get a job, the best way to get an interview, the best way to stay employed, is to suck up. Find the person who can help you the most, and do whatever it takes to get on their good side. Be the first person they think of for anything. Do whatever they ask. Follow all their instructions and never openly complain about anything they do. If that is going on, it can make a difference in your employment.

Now that I find myself in the position to do this, I am stressing over the actual act of sucking up. I never wanted to be one of those people. It felt dishonest to me. I will tell you if I like or dislike something about you, the way you manage, the skills you have or do not have. To pretend, to not speak out, to go along, that is not the course I have followed. So, I ask, is it ok to suck up, even though I have these strong feelings and beliefs about it? Or have I crossed that line and become just what I disliked and what I make a point to call out?

Whatever!! I need to stay employed. I like this company. Whatever it takes......