Successful superior-subordinate relationships require mutual management

Although the superior-subordinate relationship is complex, it is filled with many opportunities for both to make the relationship meaningful and productive. Superiors' examination of their beliefs about subordinates as well as subordinates' determination of the bases of their assumptions about superiors address fundamental aspects of the relationship. Both the superior's and the subordinate's understanding of the complexity of authority lays the groundwork for reflective inquiry by superiors and risk taking by subordinates. In this competitive environment, without both good superiors and good subordinates organizations will suffer immensely. Acknowledging that the relationship requires careful management is the first step in making it mutually successful.