When a lot of something is given to a person before the person is ready for it we say “It is too much too soon”!
At work, I see several clients make random decisions based on a person’s knowledge or expertise in one area or their impression of that person based on just a few interactions. These in HR parlance are examples of a “halo bias” or a “recency bias” which become the basis of a manager’s decision to give somebody a special recognition, role, position or title that the person may or may not be truly ready for as yet. It could also be a situation in which a lot of things are done prematurely. When too much is given or done too soon, then what is given or done is not as effective or valuable as it could have been if the timing had been more appropriate. This becomes an example of “too much too soon”.
I recall one experience when an absolutely outstanding Credit underwriting guy made a terrific presentation based on which he was made the Business Head of the entire Vehicles Business where he would also be responsible for Sales. This meant leading a large team of people with which he had little experience. His boss said he is an intelligent guy and it would be a cakewalk for him. Only when some of his one-downs/direct reports walked out and questioned his calibre in managing a sales force the management had to roll back on their initial stance! The person himself was overwhelmed and left the company soon after.
In a day and age where staff attrition is an issue across levels, some leaders may try to buy loyalty or commitment in the short term by giving such perceived hot shots/ experts/ stars too much too soon. This definitely upsets several others (who may be equally deserving), builds resentment and lowers team engagement levels! At the other extreme are employees shopping around for jobs and asking how you define “too soon” when it comes to jumping jobs!
We use the expression too much too soon in romantic relationships as well! He suddenly proposed and we haven’t even known each other long enough, isn’t it too soon (such a despo); he said I love you, isn’t it too soon; she asked me to meet her parents, isn’t it too soon!!!! Fear of losing the partner or fear of commitment may throw off people at times who want to enjoy their journey of exploring a future together. In relationships, as well two people figure out together when is the right time when you are both ready to take the plunge.
At work when someone wants to stay in an organisation because of their own volition based on not just one thing but a combination of them ( the culture, the money, the benefits, the role itself and the growth potential they see) that is when you don’t say it is a random decision.
(This article first appeared on the WiP page on 4th Sept, 2023. I am the founder of WiP which is a cohort of like minded talented women who help each other grow in a fun filled, judgement free manner!)