When the fish in a stream are dying, biologists don't attempt to solve the problem by yanking the fish out of the stream, throwing them into a clean fish tank for an hour a day, and then pitching them back into their original ecosystem for the rest of the day.
Instead, they search to discover ...When the fish in a stream are dying, biologists don't attempt to solve the problem by yanking the fish out of the stream, throwing them into a clean fish tank for an hour a day, and then pitching them back into their original ecosystem for the rest of the day.
Instead, they search to discover the cause of the problem and identify real solutions. This includes cleaning up pollution, educating users of the stream, and securing resources to respond to the challenge. True problem solvers use both common sense and good science.
Because they recognize that the well-being of each fish relates to the health of the total community, they do whatever is necessary to restore the condition of the creek so the fish can thrive.
Regarding workplace negativity, a "no sense, no science" approach is often used. It's similar to a captain swerving a massive ship just a wee bit after he sights the tip of a giant iceberg straight ahead. A humorous speaker is hired to "lighten up" or motivate jaded and anxious employees. Workers who are openly hostile or disruptive are disciplined or referred to anger management and conflict resolution programs.
Today's epidemic of negativity at work proves that workplace anger and anxiety are often justifiable responses to unjust workplace conditions. Negativity soars when the surface symptoms of a toxic work environment are attacked but the underlying causes of employee dissatisfaction (e.g., unfair policies and procedures, pay inequities, overwork, and inadequate staffing) continue to fester.
Successful managers are aware that the health, happiness, and prosperity of the entire company is inextricably linked to the well-being of each employee. Because they recognize that success is more likely to result when management demonstrates high concern for employees as well as productivity, they treat every person with dignity and respect while challenging them to reach their full potential.
The following examples portray the effects of two dramatically different approaches.
AN EXAMPLE THAT MADE EMPLOYEES "VOTE NO" WITH THEIR FEET
Ronald Allen, CEO of Delta Airlines, reacted to financial disaster with a brutal downsizing campaign that chopped about one-third of the airline's workforce. The deep cuts resulted in a startling decline in customer service ratings that had once been the envy of the industry. Allen was also known for humiliating employees, and a survey revealed that his workers were skeptical, frightened, and hostile. Even though Allen's actions placed the airline in the black again, a massive exodus of talent occurred as employees resigned, and the board chose not to renew Allen's contract.
WHAT YOU WANT TO DO NOW
On the other hand, when Gerald Grinstein took the helm of an ailing company (Western Airlines), he spent hundreds of hours in cockpits, behind check-in counters, and in the baggage-handling pits. He got to know his employees and genuinely listened to their concerns. His impressive ability to establish rapport became invaluable. He convinced employees to agree to concessions on work rules and to take pay cuts with the promise that they would eventually have a larger stake in a healthy company. His actions catapulted the airlines into a solvent position after only two years. In fact, Grinstein sold Western Airlines to Delta for $860 million.
Grinstein's successes were repeated when he became CEO of another ailing transportation company. Burlington Northern was saddled with $3 billion of debt. To gain employee approval of cost-cutting plans, Grinstein flew a selected group of maintenance workers, administrative professionals, and train crews from all over the country to dine with him at the company's headquarters. He also rode the railroad's routes, working and talking with crews. Because he asked for and genuinely listened to the advice of employees, they felt respected and empowered, and both the company and individuals reached peak performance.
PREVENTION IS THE BEST CURE
Most of the causes and costs of workplace frustration, anger, and anxiety can be prevented. In an ideal workplace, employees are internally motivated and self-regulating because they are hired with care, placed in jobs that serve them as well as the company, and supported with the resources required to accomplish their jobs.
When companies treat employees with dignity and make efforts to empower them, employee confidence, morale, and performance grow.
The best employee motivation strategy is to correct dysfunctional aspects of corporate culture while simultaneously working with individual employees who are angry or anxious.
Successful companies understand Employee Motivation 101. They nurture their workers while achieving their missions.
Below are the key components of a training plan I use when I work with managers and organizations.
HOW TO BOOST EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION, ENGAGEMENT, & RETENTION BY OVERCOMING WORKPLACE NEGATIVITY
__ Understand that negativity is a symptom of the unmet needs of employees.
__ Identify the root causes of problems.
__ Create a respectful environment in which each individual is valued.
__ Recognize employee accomplishments and facilitate healthy social interactions.
__ Encourage the constructive expression of negative emotions.
__ Provide a safe work environment.
__ Shed one-size-fits-all routines and work hours.
__ Empower employees with change and stress reduction skills.
__ Create a workplace filled with humor, joy, and fun.
Take advantage of Proven Leadership Coaching Strategies guaranteed to escalate your leadership success. Just complete the short application form on this website so I can contact you for a complimentary 20-minute consultation. If we decide we’re a good fit as client and coach, we’ll discuss a coaching agreement. I look forward to helping you enjoy building a winning team.
© 2019 Doris Helge, Ph.D. Interviewed on “The Today Show,” CNN and NPR. Author of three bestselling books, including “Joy on the Job.” Certified Master Leadership Coach Doris Helge has helped people like you meet every challenge you’re facing. Discover the Leadership resources you need here now!