f a manager describes a person using the stock phrase "unusually loyal", what does s/he probably mean?

That the employee is a "company man" or woman in that he/she never questions anything and demonstrates energy and dedication to carrying out company plans or work assignments.

If a manager describes a person as "unusually loyal," they are likely referring to an employee who demonstrates an exceptional level of commitment, dedication, and faithfulness to the organization or company. This means the individual goes above and beyond typical expectations when it comes to showing support, staying with the company for an extended period, and prioritizing its goals and interests. The manager may have noticed consistent and extraordinary displays of loyalty, such as consistently working extra hours, always being available to help, showing unwavering support for company decisions, and even turning down other job opportunities in favor of staying with the organization.

If a manager describes a person as "unusually loyal," it typically signifies that the person displays an exceptional level of loyalty compared to others. This may mean that the person consistently demonstrates dedication, trustworthiness, and allegiance towards their work, team, or organization. To determine a manager's intended meaning behind this phrase, it is important to take into account the specific context and behavior of the individual in question.

To get a better understanding, you can follow these steps to analyze the meaning behind the phrase:

1. Context: Consider the circumstances in which the phrase was used. Was it in a performance evaluation, during a conversation, or in a written reference? Understanding the context can provide a clue about the perspective and purpose of the manager's statement.

2. Behavior: Look at the person's actions and track record. Assess whether they consistently go above and beyond their responsibilities, exhibit strong commitment to the organization's goals, maintain strong relationships with colleagues, or ensure a high level of productivity and performance.

3. Comparison: Evaluate how the person's loyalty differs from that of others. Are they more devoted, invested, or actively involved in their work compared to their coworkers? Consider whether the manager's use of the term "unusually loyal" implies that the person's loyalty stands out significantly.

4. Feedback: If possible, gather feedback from other colleagues or supervisors to gather additional insights about the person's loyalty and dedication. This can help validate the manager's perspective and offer a more comprehensive understanding.

By carefully examining the context, behavior, comparison, and seeking additional feedback, you can gain a clearer understanding of what the manager means when they describe a person as "unusually loyal."