Many people have questioned this view. Indeed, there are some leaders in reality who are not worthy of our respect. They were able to reach leadership positions not because they are particularly smart, but because they have connections, background, or are skilled at office politics. Therefore, few people truly admire their superiors in private, especially in state-owned enterprises, which also leads to tense and poor "cadre-mass" relations. The situation is similar in South Korea. According to a survey by the Korean Herald Economy, 80.9% of white-collar workers most wanted to take revenge on their superiors. In other words, about 80% of superiors are considered bad bosses not recognized by their subordinates. It is evident that few people sincerely "assume the boss is smarter than you." However, your boss has reached their current position because they have strengths that surpass yours and qualities that make you concede. Perhaps their education is not as high as yours, or their emotional intelligence is not as good, but they still have at least three aspects where they are smarter than you: At least in "position," they are smarter than you Standing at a higher position, they see and have access to things you do not, including responsibilities and rights. Thus, they can obtain more data, intelligence, and information, including advanced technology and facilities, to help them understand and solve the problems you face. In this regard, they have an advantage over you. The scenery seen by someone standing below a high platform differs from that seen by someone on top. Our differing views with our superiors stem from our different positions; they may see things more comprehensively and with a longer perspective. At least in "network," they are smarter than you At different levels, the people you interact with differ. They have more time to engage with a wide range of individuals, including those outside the company, such as clients and peers, as well as those outside the industry, such as government and media. They have a more "colorful" circle than you, allowing them to gain more information, support, and resources. In this regard, they are smarter than you. People at different levels have different relationships, and the power of networks is immeasurable. Perhaps your boss is not truly smart, but within their circle, there are certainly people smarter than you. At least in "experience," they are smarter than you Your boss became your boss because they accomplished things you have not, earning recognition and approval from others, especially the boss. This indicates they have a commendable "track record." In fact, a valued track record is itself a significant asset. A person's ability is not spoken but demonstrated through actions. In this regard, they are smarter than you. Accomplishing things is itself a capability; only through experience do you understand. Do not easily question what you have not experienced. Perhaps your boss's behavior does not align with your values, but it is not only good bosses who can be your teachers. You may not respect the person, but you must respect the position. As Jeffrey Pfeffer, professor of organizational behavior at Stanford University, said, "The position itself implies competence, and we should treat them as competent." Lin Biao also expressed a similar sentiment based on his experience: "Agree, not because you agree with the matter, but because you agree with the person." Respecting authority is itself a sign of intelligence. Who is smarter than whom, you know best in your heart. Editor's PS: The editor has selected 1,067 quality articles from nearly 1,900 published on this official account, categorizing them into 14 major categories and 57 knowledge points, systematically compiling frontline marketing management content into a library for your learning. From market to customers, covering practical tactics and management, all are valuable insights. After following the official account, reply with the number "1" to browse and view related content.
Management & Methods
Don't Be Unconvinced: Your Boss Is Indeed Smarter Than You
Many people question this view, and indeed some leaders are unworthy of respect, having risen through connections or politics rather than intelligence. Yet your boss must excel in at least three ways: position, network, and experience, which make them smarter than you in those aspects.
