Tag: Power Distance

  • Your Crew Isn’t the Problem. Uncertainty Is.

    Question:Jason from Florida writes: “Sometimes it feels like our Hispanic crews jump into work quickly without asking many questions. The work ethic is great, but we end up with rework because something wasn’t fully understood. Is this a communication issue—or maybe something more?” Answer:Jason, I heard almost that exact observation from a gringo superintendent in…

  • Power Distance, Caudillos, and the Standards We Set

    It was Monday, August 14, 2000. First day on the job, first meeting as a construction professional. The vice president of construction stood at the front of the room, scanning the incoming class of new managers like a man already questioning the job offers he made. “I’ll leave you newbies with two pieces of advice,”…