By Pia Lee, CEO, LIW
The corporate tradition of giving expensive watches took an ugly time-out yesterday.
Australia Post CEO Christine Holgate was asked to ‘stand aside’ by Prime Minister Scott Morrison pending an investigation into her office’s purchase of Cartier watches worth $3000 each, for four senior employees. These were a reward for their efforts in brokering a deal with Australian banks to set up banking services at Australia Post offices.
What does this mean for leadership?
Sometimes the intent of a leadership action misaligns with the perception it creates. Failing to think through the potential ‘optics’ from a range of stakeholders’ views in advance can leave the door open for judgement and bigger negative impact.
Probably best to give yourself a minute to decide if there’s an alternative way that the intent can be conveyed.
Any watch can do that.