The premise of this post on the Tech Republic blog is that if an employee is "too good" it can end up hurting both the  individual and the organization. The post goes on to describe a manager who is so good at delivering bad news that her boss now asks her to speak on behalf of the organization while facing television cameras, the board of directors, and other stakeholders. Of course this is all in addition to her regular responsibilities. The manager is resentful that she is being asked to perform these tasks and is now considering quitting because, in her words, she deserves better.

Her boss says that  “She’s the best person for this activity, including me. I’m glad we’ve got her around and intend to continue letting her take point on this.”

My first thought on reading the post was 'What is this manager thinking!?'  My second thought was 'What is her boss thinking!?' They both have taken what should be a win-win situation and turned it into a crisis for the company.

First, let's look at the manager who thinks she has been 'thrown under the bus'. I see someone who has a unique talent that no one else in her organization has. Her skills and abilities to handle tough situations are not only valuable in her current position, but are things that she can capitalize on as her career grows. They are also portable to other jobs and other companies. This puts her in an excellent negotiating position. Rather than taking a victim mentality, she would be better served to use this as proof of her value to the organization in her next conversation about promotions or salary increases. If she really hates this aspect of the job, she needs to  communicate this to her boss and give him  an opportunity to work out a compromise before turning in her resignation.

Next, let's look at her boss. It's clear that he hasn't had a candid conversation with the manager. He assumes that she knows how valuable she is to the organization and that she is being groomed for future career growth. He hasn't told her that she is the best person for the job and why. He hasn't assured her that the role she plays is invaluable to the company.

Don't make the management mistake that unfolds in this scenario. Whether you are employee or boss, communication is the key.