I came across a parenting talk about the parenting style between a Carpenter & a Gardener, it strikes on me that it applies to management style as well. But for management style, I would like to introduce the 3rd kind which is the Poisoner which I had personally experienced before in my early work years.
1. Carpenter: The Structured and Precise Manager
A carpenter works with careful planning, measurements, and predetermined designs. This style reflects a rigid, top-down management approach, where the leader tries to control all aspects of the process.
Key Traits:
- Focus on precision and detailed planning
- Prefers structure and standardization
- Sees employees as part of a system to be shaped and assembled
Pros:
- Good for projects that require strict timelines and predictable outcomes
- Minimizes uncertainty and risk
Cons:
- Can stifle creativity and adaptability
- Employees may feel micromanaged or limited
2. Gardener: The Nurturing and Adaptive Manager
A gardener focuses on cultivating a healthy environment for growth. This manager provides resources, guidance, and support but trusts the team to flourish in their own way. The gardener adapts to circumstances and understands that growth takes time.
Key Traits:
- Empowers employees and encourages autonomy
- Focuses on long-term development
- Flexible and responsive to change
Pros:
- Fosters creativity, innovation, and personal growth
- Builds resilient teams capable of adapting to change
Cons:
- Requires patience; outcomes may take time
- Risk of losing control without clear boundaries
3. Poisoner: The Toxic and Destructive Manager
The poisoner is the opposite of the gardener—someone who damages the environment, undermines growth, and creates a toxic culture. This management style is characterized by negativity, manipulation, and blame.
Key Traits:
- Uses fear and control to manage
- Undermines trust and collaboration
- Focuses on personal power over team success
Pros:
- Short-term compliance
- Maintains strict control
Cons:
- Demoralizes employees and leads to high turnover
- Stifles innovation and engagement
- Long-term damage to morale and performance
Example: A boss who constantly criticizes employees, takes credit for their work, and blames others for failures.
Which Management Style Are You?
While the gardener style is generally the most effective for fostering innovation, creativity, and long-term success, there are situations where the carpenter approach is necessary—especially when precision and structure are critical. However, the poisoner style should be avoided at all costs, as it leads to toxicity and organizational failure.
Raymond Chew
SGK
07.02.2025
