Mauzy: Voters can be the micro-managing boss

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October 4, 2012

Mauzy: Voters can be the micro-managing boss

Jean Mauzy Rushville Republican The Rushville Republican Thu Oct 04, 2012, 09:16 AM EDT

RUSHVILLE — During an election, registered voters are offered what may be the only chance in their lifetime to be the hiring manager. The task of the voters is similar to that of the human resources professional. We try to determine who best fits role for the ideals we have for the job at hand, the most qualified for the job. We may not have the privilege to a face-to-face interview in order to ask the interview questions, but there are some things we can do.

First, research the candidates and read up on the issues they represent best. Second, in this age of technology, send the candidates an email message with your concerns. Sure, you may receive a blanket reply but you never know who might take the time to respectfully respond. At the very least, you will know that you are being proactive in the process. Third, study the candidates while watching debates or while reading about the banter between two parties. Televised debates are great because not only do voters receive the chance to hear responses, we can study the non-verbal body language. The non-verbal language helps to create the total picture of the person we watch.

After the election, voters have another role to play, that of being the micro-managing boss. This means that we remain aware of which politicians are keeping up with what important issues. Which ones are being ethical and staying true to the words spoken during the campaign rush. Be relentless in your managing. Send them letters or emails to let them know you are watching and also to let them know what they are doing right as well as wrong. There’s a lot to be said for being a “thorn in the side,” especially if a lot of people are engaged in the activity.

I know many people feel that voters cannot change the way things are and so the only thing that gets accomplished is grumbling about politics and politicians. Why though, do we allow the candidates to force the issue of change down our throats if change is not believable? I truly believe that the people can make a difference if they make the decision to be proactive. It’s tiring, frustrating, and sometime very stressful, but the results can be fruitful.

I have become a micromanager of sorts. I no longer assume that people, or organizations, are going to do what they say they will do. I have had too many poor experiences with people who either don’t do their jobs or they don’t know how to do their jobs and it seems to get worse every day. I am fed up to the point that I am on it most of the time. I follow up with phone calls or personal visits to see if everything is going the way it should be. Of late, I have even been inclined to offer suggestions on how certain people can better accomplish their jobs. In my opinion, it’s more about the people not the organizations that the people must deal with. After all, the people hire the professionals they use.

The people should be in control, both here in their personal lives and also in the politics of our elected officials. I urge all eligible voters to carefully consider who to place into political office. Don’t just vote for a party or a name, but vote for the person who appears best suited for the tasks you feel most important. It’s a big election year; make sure your recently eligible teenagers are registered to vote. Register at the county clerk’s office or online at https://indianavoters.in.gov/PublicSite/PublicMain.aspx. Deadline is Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2012.

Be proactive, be informed, and be relentless in your efforts. It’s time for the people to take back control.

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