Ask for the Receipts
Referring to evidence isn't the same thing as supplying evidence. When one of your employees makes _reference_ to evidence, ask to _see_ the evidence.
Rick Anderson is University Librarian of Brigham Young University, a "chef" at The Scholarly Kitchen, and the author of several books, including _Scholarly Communication: What Everyone Needs to Know_.
Referring to evidence isn't the same thing as supplying evidence. When one of your employees makes _reference_ to evidence, ask to _see_ the evidence.
Compulsive naysayers are not always wrong – and sometimes they see realities that neither you nor your more compliant and agreeable employees see. And they can save you time.
Now, more than ever, librarianship needs leaders who can demonstrate wisdom, judgment, and empathy for all the people they lead and all the people their libraries serve.
Presented on their own, either percentages or raw numbers can tell very misleading stories -- and lead to bad decisions.
Wise leaders not only recognize the superior intelligence and talent of others in their organizations; they also openly acknowledge it and look for ways to encourage its full express for the benefit of the library organization and its patrons.
The interpersonal problems that arise from organizational change are among the most difficult that a leader will ever deal with. But dealing with them effectively, fairly, and consistently is among the most important duties of a leader.