“This indecision’s buggin’ me. If you don’t want me, set me free. Exactly whom I’m supposed to be. Don’t you know which clothes even fit me? Come on and let me know. Should I cool it or should I blow?”… The Clash (click to listen)
It’s been an interesting time working with people in coaching mode to help guide them through the process of change. New leadership is being installed in places and the inevitable “Should I Stay or Should I Go” questions are starting to pop up.
In some ways it is an exercise in surviving (or grieving) the loss of a legacy culture. We hear things like, “We were like a family, but now its competitive and mean.” New leaders may be doing more than just ruffling a few feathers as they implement new ways of doing business.
A couple of my professional coaching subjects have funneled through the thought process, done their diligence, and came to their conclusion. One stayed. The other went. In both cases our analysis centered on clarifying the current state and taking the emotion out of the decision making process.
Should I stay or should I go now? And if not now when? How long shall we wait?
If I go there will be trouble. It takes time to find and adjust to a new work environment.
And if I stay it will be double. Is it possible for me to manage up to this leadership?
So come on and let me know. Communicate with me because I have one foot out the door.
Should I stay, or should I go? What is best for all?
In my own HR practice, I have experienced the clash between the organization’s longer term strategic goals and employees that wanted more in the here and now. The leader’s vision of expansion definitely affected some staff who decided to “Go.” However, in the longer term many that stayed became part of the strategic vision. Today that means they are part of a robust and dominant health system that is well positioned to meet the needs of its population well in to the future.
With such an impactful personal decision it is wise to revisit the stay and go questions
The STAY Questions
- When you work each day on-site or hybrid, what things do you look forward to?
- What are you learning in your present role?
- What is your primary motivation for staying with your current organization?
- When was the last time you thought about leaving? What prompted it?
- What can be done to make your experience at work better?
- Have I sounded my questions and concerns off a trusted resource?
The GO Questions
- Am I reacting primarily to personality difference with the new leadership?
- Being honest, what has the new leadership done right? (that you are whining about)
- Am I able to assess the current state, near term and longer term at my present job objectively?
- What is the long game for my career and those in my sphere of influence?
- Do the changes violate my moral principles or higher calling?
- What trusted advisors have I interacted with before making the big decision?
It’s always tease tease tease.
You’re happy when I’m on my knees.
One day is fine and next is black.
So if you want me off your back.
Well come on and let me know.
Should I stay or should I go?
