What it’s all about
For professional managers, the most important thing is to be flexible and far-sighted. An interesting development in this context is the emergence of so-called “management preppers” – managers who actively prepare for the end of their employment in a company well in advance, long before such a turn of events is even foreseeable. This phenomenon raises a key question: Is this form of precaution a clever self-protection measure or a sign of disloyalty to the company?
The psychology of management prepping
Management preppers operate from a position of uncertainty and a need for security. They want to be prepared for possible career changes, be it due to market fluctuations, company takeovers or personal differences within the management team. This preparation can take various forms, from ongoing training to maintaining a broad network to financial security.
Reasons for prepping
Fast-moving world of work
The modern working world is characterised by volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA world). Managers who prepare for potential changes often argue that this unpredictability makes strategic planning essential for their own careers.
Self-care
At a time when burnout and stress are widespread, preparing for a possible career change can also be seen as a form of self-care. It gives individuals a sense of control over their own future.
Responsibility towards the family
The financial and emotional security of the family often plays a central role in the decision to prepare for career changes. This emphasises the desire to secure the standard of living and the future of the family.
Is prepping synonymous with disloyalty?
The question of whether preparing for the end of a career in a company should be considered disloyal is complex and depends on various factors:
Loyalty vs. personal responsibility
Loyalty to the organisation is a valuable quality, but it must be balanced with personal responsibility towards one’s own career and future. A balance between commitment to the company and caring for one’s own professional development is crucial.
Transparency and openness
The behaviour may be more likely to be perceived as disloyal if it is done secretly or undermines the interests of the company. Open communication about career goals and plans can help avoid misunderstandings.
Contribution to the company’s success
As long as managers who are preparing for possible changes remain committed and productive contributors to the company’s success, their behaviour cannot be dismissed as disloyal across the board. Rather, it is a sign of balanced professional self-care.
Conclusion
The discussion about management preppers touches on fundamental questions about the relationship between individual career planning and company loyalty. In an ideal working environment, there is a balance between commitment to the company and provision for one’s own professional future. Ultimately, far-sighted preparation that is transparent and in line with organisational goals can benefit not only the individual but also the company by contributing to a resilient and forward-looking leadership culture.
R2049 