In checking the organizational chart, there is a position in most companies that falls somewhere under the CEO and COO. That position, "VP of Mystery," must be a position of power. It is a position of which no one ever questions the direction, practices or substance.
So what does this position mean? Obviously, the title is a joke, but the situation creating a lack of knowledge is not. When managers and other employees are asked questions but either fail to respond, or vacillate/defer to others, errors may occur and culpability often must be determined. “Who told you to do that?” someone asks. The response? “They did.”
Consider this case: a mobile on-site repair technician was working with a detailed trailer PM sheet with explicit directions that were not followed as required. His supervisor asked, “Why are you not doing those items as printed on the sheet?” When the tech responded that he was told he did not have to do that, the supervisor asked, “Who told you that?” The tech was unsure, but the answer was, “they said.”
Who is “Mr. They?” Where can I find him? What does he drive? Where is his office? Got his mobile number? The technician finally said he thought the technician who used to do his job and got fired told him that “They” told him he did not have to do that part of the PM.
My advice? Take a look at your company’s organization chart. Is there a “VP of Mystery” position? Okay, so the title isn’t there, but you can bet that mystery people are being blamed for making decisions all around you, 24 hours a day. Some of those decisions may not be based on fleet policy and procedures. It is always important to review procedures of all jobs and tasks with all employees on a regular basis. Make sure you let them know there often are consequences for taking shortcuts and/or not following the company’s stated policies and procedures.
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