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Boss Quote by John Ortberg

“A boss who interrupts an employee a lot is called an extrovert, whereas an employee who interrupts a boss too often is called an ex-employee.” quote by John Ortberg
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“A boss who interrupts an employee a lot is called an extrovert, whereas an employee who interrupts a boss too often is called an ex-employee.”

John Ortberg

About This Quote

Source Sermon: Workplace Dynamics, 2012

The anecdote highlights double standards in workplace behavior, where similar actions are judged differently based on hierarchy.

In simple terms: Bosses and employees are judged differently for the same behavior.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address power‑based double standards.

Themes

leadership power communication workplace ethics

Mood

reflective humorous

Type

ethical observational

When to use this quote

  • team meetings
  • performance reviews
  • conflict resolution
  • HR training

Key Concepts

hierarchy bias social norms

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do power dynamics shape perceptions of behavior?
  • What policies can reduce double standards?
A Different Perspective

The joke may ignore systemic issues beyond individual behavior.

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