The Smile

The Smile -- an executive strategy? -- 'probably exists on several levels, but this is how The Cube has been watching it lately. No, this is not a poem, it just seemed easier to write it this way...

The Smile displays an even disposition that says
“I am your friend.”
That Smile does not say “I understand” or
“I am going to support you.”
It does say “I agree with you,” though.

Agreement.
The Smile will never disagree in public.
With anyone.
“Let’s take it offline, one to one.”
And then the Smile will agree with you – one to one –
And you –
You, too.

Or, maybe, have unavoidable schedule issues which
Keep preventing that particular one to one.
Until the problem goes away.
Or is ignored.
Or isn’t, but
Is avoided.

The Smile is very good at bringing
Peace to the organization.
Very good at avoiding conflict.
Very good at avoiding.

Until the Smile gets what it wants
Whether or not the conflict
Conflict –
“Are you an obstacle or part of the solution?” –
Conflict –
Don’t want that –
Can’t have that in this organization –
Whether or not the conflict brings up an
Uncomfortable truth,
Because
Truth is maybe not what the Smile cares about.

Not when the Smile is in charge.
The Smile wants results.
The Smile’s version of results.
We all want results,
Don’t you agree?

Coda: There are moments in life when The Cube is very glad not to be the one paying the Smile for screwing off with my money. But, probably, I wouldn't notice: the Smile is so friendly and and persuasive that it's dazzling.