The Dangers of Working for an Underqualified Communication Supervisor

There are many paths to supervisory roles in communication functions—not all are created equal. I’ve worked for communication supervisors who have strong subject matter expertise—and I’ve worked for those who haven’t. As you’re testing the waters to determine current or prospective supervisors’ competence (more on that here), also assess their confidence levels.

An incredibly confident (perhaps even arrogant) supervisor who lacks subject matter competence can work to your advantage if they ensure you have the autonomy and visibility to effectively lead internal communication. It’s the incompetent supervisors who lack confidence that you really have to watch out for. They may feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities and expectations placed upon them. If you’re more qualified, they may refuse your help and ignore your insight. Here are a few possible explanations for that behavior:

• Fear of failure
  The supervisor might be worried about making mistakes or not meeting expectations. Their insecurity could be rooted in a fear of being judged or criticized. As a result, they may prefer to handle things independently to maintain control and reduce the risk of potential errors.

• Lack of trust
  The supervisor might have trust issues, either with you specifically or in general. They may have had negative experiences in the past that have made them hesitant to rely on others. Their insecurity could lead them to believe that others won't meet their standards or perform tasks adequately.

• Perfectionism
  If the supervisor has perfectionistic tendencies, they may feel that delegating tasks or accepting help would compromise the quality of the outcome. They might believe that they are the only ones capable of achieving the desired level of excellence, even if it puts additional strain on them.

• Micromanagement tendencies
  Some supervisors have a strong need for control and prefer to be involved in every aspect of the work. They may feel uncomfortable relinquishing control or delegating tasks because they fear losing oversight or being unaware of important details.

If you find yourself in a situation where you’re reporting to a supervisor who lacks confidence and competence, approach them with empathy and understanding. If you're interested in supporting them, consider having an open, honest conversation with them. Try expressing your willingness to help, highlighting your capabilities, and demonstrating your commitment to supporting them. However, be prepared to respect their decision if they still choose to handle things independently.