Sean is the head of the logistics group at a medium-size company that makes plastic parts for other companies, including manufacturers of printers, television sets, computers, and washing machines. His department provides a few valuable services for the company such as receiving and storing raw materials, shipping products, and disposal of waste materials. The logistics department consists of ten people including an administrative support specialist. Sean’s department is meeting its goals, and Sean regularly receives average or above-average performance evaluations.

In contrast to the generally positive job situation facing Sean, he sees one irritating problem that needs resolution. Sean has received feedback from several employees inside and outside the department that Phil, one of the logistic technicians, frequently mocks him but not to his face. Karen, the administrative support person, casually mentioned to Sean recently, “Have you seen Phil do one of his impressions of you? He did one the other day during coffee break. It was kind of negative, and very unprofessional.”

Sean noticed that Phil made the following post on his Facebook page: “Life isn’t always so easy when you know much more than your boss.” Although the post may not have been directed specifically at Sean, it was still hurtful.

Sean was thinking while driving to work, “I don’t have any direct evidence that Phil is mocking me, but it sure seems to be true. I have to figure what to do about this problem.”

What kind of leadership issue is Sean dealing with?