Talk about a tight spot ! But James has an opportunity to shine on this
task while still being loyal to his apparent misguided boss.

Let's assume the boss means what he says and is used to getting his
way. James knows what the established engineering practice dictates for
lightning safety. So let's us combine the two. Bob suggests a CYA memo,
that's basic step-1, however it must not be accusatory--no "dumb boss"
talk here. Instead, address it to boss and the project folder, describe
a few points of concern that may impinge on safety and/or equipment
reliability, lastly, offer your engineering-based-and-supported ideas of
what should be. Finally, in the memo ask the boss to reconsider and to
please advise you. Send it.

Next, be prepared and start to plan for the original dumb work order.
The boss may reject your "I have a better idea memo," but now he does so
with some trepidation. [Ha, but he could reconsider!] He also knows that
you have demonstrated leadership and managerial skill that will prove of
value at a future time.

James, you should buy that boss a cigar for this wonderful opportunity
to display your intelligence, not his faults. Go for it! And if he does
give in, do the right thing: Buy Donuts and coffee for the group.
They'll  likely know what'sup anyhow.

Oh, James, do let us know when you move into that bigger office with a
secretary. :-}

Peter

>>> bob_barr@HOTMAIL.COM 07/09/01 10:15AM >>>
James R Albers wrote:
>>>
>>>It seems that the tower company did a good job.  Now, all that I
have to
>>>do is to show my boss the error of his ways.  The drawback is, that
if I
>>>do convince him, he'll probably make me do all of the work.
>>>

>Solid documentation should make that showing a bit easier, though not
>necessarily so. (Depending on your work situation, a CYA memo to your
boss
>might not be a bad idea if he refuses to see the light.)

>I, for one, would certainly rather have to do the work than have to
explain
>to the CEO why the work wasn't done. This especially applies if
there's any
>chance that 'his way' puts people or a lot of expensive equipment at
risk.
>Your boss may no longer be there when the stuff hits the fan.

>Regards, Bob

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