Combating Negativity in the Workplace
Introduction
Negativity is a cancer that will impact all aspects of an organization, from day-to-day operations to the organizations ability to recruit and retain quality employees. Like a cancer, left unchecked, it will spread throughout the organization. Combating negativity must be a high-priority for leaders and requires a strategic approach.
Leaders, both formal and informal, have the power to combat this significant threat. While it may seem overwhelming, there are several principles you can apply to combat negativity within your organization.
Be a positive voice.
When you encounter negative behavior at work the natural response is to criticize and complain. Take the lead by pointing out the behavior to individual and help them to understand why it is detrimental. Many times the individual doesn’t even realize they are being negative and doesn’t understand the impact of their negative attitude. Helping them to recognize these behaviors can go a long way in eliminating them.
You must equally be aware of your own behavior and lead by example by taking positive actions whenever you can. Being a positive voice in a sea of negative will start to stem the tide of negativity in your organization.
Don’t join in.
One of the most effective ways to cut negativity off is to simply refuse to participate. If you are having a conversation with someone and they start speaking negatively either try to steer the conversation back towards the positive or walk away. It’s tempting to try and fit in by echoing the negative sentiment of others but the more people who join in the more the negativity spreads.
Make a stand.
Address the negativity that you hear and see directly with the individuals who are responsible. It may be a difficult conversation to have, especially if you are not in a formal leadership position, but the only way to change the trend is to take action. Make it clear that you personally will not support negativity in the workplace and don’t be afraid to challenge those who do. It may seem daunting early on but as more and more people see the benefits of a positive work environment, the tides will turn.
