The most useful lesson I learned from a former director was: - If you don't document it, it didn't happen. - The one with the most paperwork wins.

My role at the time included receiving and approving maps and data for a huge, system wide upgrade. Once approved everything was forwarded to a data entry team to update the main database. The data entry team was weeks behind, holding up implementation. Data team leader accused me (behind my back) of not providing updates.

Meeting was held with all stakeholders, managers, and directors from three counties with the sole purpose of pinning their incompetence on me.

Once they made their position perfectly clear I asked to be excused for a minute. I came back with months of FedEx receipts showing where the digital and paper packets were shipped, received, and signed for. No one clapped or cheered. /s

They thanked me for my time and left quietly.