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A recent addition to our management team is leading to interpersonal issues between executives. Our new colleague is well qualified and execution focussed, but she is also very competitive.
She comes across as someone trying to prove a point in every review. While our boss feels this will shake things up... it is leading to defensive reactions by other executives during management reviews, and definitely affecting collaborative work needed to solve broader challenges.
Appreciate your advice, in dealing with this issue.
You could try giving her constructive feedback (a longer response would be required to discuss what this might look like;) however, if she is being encouraged to show this behavior by the boss to “shake things up,” there may be little you can do to change her behavior.
The only behavior you can control in this situation is your own. I would advise you to take the high road, avoid making destructive comments or letting this person get under your skin. I have seen examples like this in a number of organizations. Most often, they ultimately self destruct because of the competitive behavior. Just don’t let her take you down with her by getting involved in excessive competition. It can be frustrating, but it’s important to control your reactions.
Another member (above) has said it simply. This person and the full management team would benefit greatly by providing coaching for the new addition. She might well provide an added and even needed perspective to the team however it becomes her job to offer her thoughts and ideas to the mix without losing the willing participation of many others. Coaching is an effective way of making that happen
