How to recognize a "gray cardinal"
Such people do not stand out in the crowd. They prefer inconspicuous clothes and very discreet perfume. Along with this on their face often, you notice a sly smile, creating a feeling of superiority over others (superiority and indeed observed). It is the "gray cardinal" runs the company, despite the apparent lack of leadership qualities.
These people have a strong intuition that helps them to solve complex problems and get around obstacles very easily. They can not explain its decision, but it is almost always correct. Therefore, some entrepreneurs or companies almost never face crises. The "gray cardinal" helps the head in time to avoid them.
"Grey cardinal" by nature endowed with almost an animal charm. He is able to notice any smells. People he estimates intuitively, rarely paying attention to the appearance. If you work in a large company, you need to be in good relations with such a person, otherwise you risk to be dismissed in the near future.
The causes of the "gray cardinal"
"Grey cardinal" - a required person in the company. It helps the Manager to look at the situation from the outside. However, there are bosses, a hundred self-righteous. They suffer the management of schizophrenia. It is rather the exception to the rule. Very rare head can afford, so "gray cardinal" of vital company in the role of Alter-ego of the boss.
This situation is not may not suit the authorities, because the company's business under the shadow leadership of his protégé. He just gets his paycheck and is present at all required meetings. Not life, but a fairy tale. But here is the reverse side. Gradually, all the company's employees are no longer perceived as formal boss and go to the "gray cardinal". The latter can take the place of the boss. If the boss is smart enough, he'll find a way to use all the features of his protégé for the benefit of the company, while not losing his seat.
Very often the Alter-ego of the boss becomes his wife. There are many chiefs who do not conduct important meetings without consulting with his wife. It regulates the work of the company in the right direction. The boss understands this and tries to hide from his subordinates that his decisions belong to the wife. Otherwise he can easily lose credibility among the staff, and then the chair.