F/OM’s response to our pissed-off attitudes about the smoking rules:
“Hi Guys,
I got some reaction from some of you regarding what we had discussed yesterday and I feel that I need to let you know where I stand.
I think you guys are missing the point on the smoking issue. While it is a policy of the agency that all should be adhering to anyway, I don’t know if you guys realize the positions that you hold in the agency, and with that, the higher standard that you’re held to – and this will not change. The old adage that it’s “lonley at the top” is true. True leaders are not always popular, but always react with the best intentions of the agency at heart. It means we must always be the best examples we can be to all staff. I do not dispute the dedication that each of you exhibit. But the “bottom line” is that it does not send a positive image to other staff when they see members of the management team and leadership team 2, 3 or 4 times a day outside taking a break, when the policy of the organization is no breaks. I would expect all of you to recognize how your behavior affects the organization and willingly be open to corrections that must be made. I shouldn’t feel that I need to justify the position of the agency. True team members would embrace the change that is needed and seek to continually improve.
This must also carry over to each of your respective departments. As I indicated to you yesterday, the status quo that is going on must change. You are the leaders in each of your departments – you must be the initiators and believers to better each of the department’s efficiencies. I no longer can be the person who tells and reminds you what needs to be done. That is your role. The sense of urgency is now.
I would be happy to discuss any of this with you guys individually. But the expectations from this supervisor will not change. It is time for each of us to find the passion within and be the leaders that I know you can be if you put your focus to it. I will help you every way that I can.”