Unbossing – Pros and Cons

Companies are cutting out middle management positions. This idea of “unbossing” has become more of a buzz topic and a possible idea to help change the dynamic of the office. This doesn’t mean that all middle managers are going to be on the chopping block, because middle managers play a crucial role in bridging the gap between levels.  This simply means that being unbossed the managers are more hands off and checks in less frequently. This empowers the staff to stay more motivated. While on the other side of the pendulum, middle managers can assume more leadership than supervisor positions. 

If you are thinking unbossing you may want to consider these drawbacks:

1. New employees will need guidance and support as they are learning their positions.  Not all employees need daily assistance, but where do they go when a problem arises.
2. While the bosses/manager are away, staff may be less inclined to work as hard as they would if the manager was in the office. 
3. There will be no frontline mentor or even accountability assistance

For every negative drawback there is a positive opportunity:

1.  The time between decision making processes is cut due to removing the middle manager.
2. Cooperation and Communication will be better since there are fewer people between upper and lower-level staff members.
3. Obviously, the reduction in personnel salary cost will be lower if middle managers are removed from the payroll.

A Gallup study has found that the unbossing experience shows that employes are more engaged and motivated because they feel a sense of purpose.  A great way to put it, employees have more control over their work without literally becoming their own boss.