THERE is a tendency for people in certain posts to present a tough persona, many times to their disadvantage but more often to those who they work with and/or serve.

Walk into any police station or school across the island, for example, and one is almost guaranteed to come across such a character as he/she relates to someone who is his/her junior. These individuals can be insulting and disrespectful, insisting or, more correctly, demanding that their ‘subjects’ bow down and pay them homage.

If a subordinate refuses to accept the statue quo, he/she will be cited as defiant and/or unco-operative. However, most times, the young police officer or teacher, cognisant of the “handle and blade” phenomenon, simply complies — for a peaceful life.

Meanwhile, visit that same police station to report a motor vehicle accident or attend a meeting at the school, occasioned by your disruptive child, and you will likely experience a lesson in humiliation. The ‘tough’ professional may speak down to you and/or address you as though you were a criminal or a child.

But what is this arrogance all about? What is it that would make a once sociable and approachable police officer or vice-principal transform into this mean monster after he/she assumes leadership of the division or school? The truth is, there is a perception that the “tougher” you are, the more respect you will get from your subordinates and/or the public.

Ironically, many of these “dons” and “donnettes” only wear these masks at the office; when they are at home or in church, they are different people. Still, there are those who retain the mask at all times, creating conflict with not only their colleagues but also their family members and friends.

Advice for the ‘tough’ professional

* Do not allow your work environment to change you into someone you are not. Take real control and establish your own identity and style.

* You may assume the role that was formally held by someone who was regarded as rough and tough, but do not feel pressured into displaying a similar behaviour pattern. Be yourself.

* Don’t lose the common touch. It can be very lonely at the top so take the time to step off the “high horse” and mingle with the people on the ground from time to time.

* Remember the people you lead are all adults so treat each and everyone with respect.

* Your success is dependent on the support and co-operation of your team members. They have power to either make you or break you.

* Do not excuse your behaviour by blaming the people you have to supervise; this is a cop out. Take responsibility for your unwelcome and unnecessary behaviour.

* Life has a way of going around so recognise that the person you humiliate at the station or at the school today may be the one in a position to help you out of a ‘sticky’ situation tomorrow.

— Wayne Powell is a human resources professional. He may be contacted at crisscounsellor@yahoo.com.