[BC] Just for fun - a little serious too.

[R.V.Zeigler]

Jeff,
I have found that "Zingers" should only be used if the two parties are 
equals, or have the type of relationship that allows that type of humor.
When I have had supervisors question my actions or requests I take into 
consideration what motivates that particular person, whether it be ego, 
frugality, fear of their supervisors, etc. ad nauseum. I then formulate 
my answer to fit their particular view of the subject.
For ego I might explain that the other stations do not have the caliber 
of talent that we do, so they can get by with cheaper, or we need the 
better equipment to be No. 1 in the market. Whichever way works in a 
particular situation.
For frugality explain the future consequences of whatever you or they 
want to do. A lot of times they do not understand that the other station 
is trying to justify making a bad decision by "selling" the concept to 
other managers. This is especially true where top management comes from 
the sales side. They are great at selling a bad idea, and making others 
think that it is brilliant. To wit, the current situation in radio.
For managers that are fearful for their careers (having problems making 
profit quotas), my best suggestion is having a resume ready and in 
circulation. These guys can always find someone to do it their way that 
will work cheaper than you. These types are in positions they can't 
handle, and will do anything, thinking they are saving themselves.
Hitting GM's, OM's, PD's, etc. with "Zingers" is a sure way to get 
yourself a reputation as someone difficult to deal with and having an 
attitude problem. As a manager myself, I will tell you, and everyone 
else that peruses the board, that I will take attitude over aptitude any 
day of the week. Skills can be taught to those with good attitudes. Bad 
attitudes poison an entire workplace. Been there, done that, and have 
seen the results of both.

-- 
R. V. Zeigler, Dir. of Eng.
Nebraska Rural Radio Assn.
KRVN-KTIC-KNEB
rzeigler at krvn.com