07. Negative attitudes, Behaviors and how to overcome

The Different Types of Bad Attitudes in the Workplace

Negative attitudes in the workplace can significantly impact dynamics and productivity. These attitudes can manifest in various ways, such as gossiping, performing tasks negligently, and exhibiting lethargy. Here are some examples of bad attitudes to watch out for:

• Lack of Collaboration: Employees who avoid working with others and prefer to work alone, showing selfish behavior in tasks.
• Arrogance: Overconfidence in one's performance and being dismissive of others.
• Stubbornness: Refusing to take ideas or advice from anyone.
• Laziness: Showing a lack of motivation and not completing tasks efficiently.
• Punctuality Issues: Regularly arriving late to work or meetings.
• Erratic or Aggressive Behavior: Displaying unpredictable or hostile behavior towards colleagues.
• Gossiping: Engaging in harmful gossip that affects team morale.
• Taking Credit for Others’ Work: Not acknowledging the contributions of others.
• Misusing Privileges: Abusing workplace privileges.
• Distraction: Using phones or laptops for personal use during work hours or meetings.

Tips on Dealing with Employee Negative Attitudes

1. Call Out the Poor Attitude: Address negative behavior directly and promptly.
2. Avoid Arguments: Stay professional and avoid confrontations.
3. Set Standards: Establish clear workplace standards and expectations.
4. Encourage Open Communication: Foster an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing concerns.
5. Distance Yourself: Maintain professional distance from those with persistently negative attitudes.
6. Check In Regularly: Regularly gauge employee sentiments and address issues.
7. Hire Positive People: Focus on recruiting individuals with positive attitudes.
8. Ask Questions: Understand the root causes of employee negativity.
9. Don’t Be Part of the Problem: Maintain a positive attitude yourself and lead by example.
10. Know When to Say Goodbye: Sometimes, it’s necessary to let go of persistently negative employees.

Relationship Between Positive Employee Attitudes and Culture

A workplace filled with positive attitudes creates an environment where anything seems possible. It's less stressful, and employees unite to share ideas and collaborate as a team. Positivity is contagious and can significantly improve the working atmosphere and culture. When employees have a pleasant attitude, job satisfaction increases, leading to higher productivity and performance.

As a manager, it’s your responsibility to monitor and supervise employee actions. Creating a positive work atmosphere encourages positive attitudes. Strive to be as upbeat as you want your staff to be. Eliminating bad conduct or attitudes quickly prevents negativity from undermining the positive environment.

Case Study: Improving Workplace Attitudes at XYZ Corp

Background: XYZ Corp, a multinational company, faced issues with low morale and productivity due to negative attitudes among employees. They decided to implement a strategy based on Frederick Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory, which suggests that job satisfaction and dissatisfaction are influenced by different factors.

Implementation:

1. Identifying Hygiene Factors:
• XYZ Corp conducted surveys to identify factors causing dissatisfaction, such as poor working conditions, inadequate pay, and lack of job security.
• They addressed these issues by improving office facilities, revising compensation packages, and ensuring job stability.
2. Enhancing Motivators:
• The company introduced initiatives to enhance motivators, such as recognition programs, opportunities for career growth, and providing meaningful work.
• Employees were given more autonomy and responsibility, with regular acknowledgment of their contributions.
3. Open Communication:
• XYZ Corp established regular communication channels, including town hall meetings and suggestion boxes, to ensure employees felt heard and valued.

Results:

The implementation of Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory led to substantial improvements in employee morale and performance at XYZ Corp. An internal survey showed that 78% of employees felt more satisfied with their jobs, and 82% reported a more positive attitude towards work. The company’s productivity increased by 18% over the year, highlighting the effectiveness of the strategy.

Conclusion

Addressing and improving employee attitudes is crucial for creating a positive work environment and culture. By fostering positivity, organizations can enhance job satisfaction, productivity, and overall performance. The case study of XYZ Corp illustrates how applying theories like Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory can effectively transform workplace attitudes and lead to organizational success.

References:

• Herzberg, F., Mausner, B., & Snyderman, B. B. (1959). The Motivation to Work. John Wiley & Sons.
• Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). (n.d.). Various articles on employee attitudes and workplace culture.