Back in the late 1980’s when I was doing reconnaissance into how well people were speaking up in organizations, there were two main behaviors by leaders that people told me caused them to become careful about expressing themselves. One was abrasive behavior by leaders — shouting, criticizing, insulting or otherwise undermining people. The other leadership… Continue reading Ambiguity, Organizational Stress and Leading Well
Category: Trust
On Organizational Anger
There is a form of organizational anger that all leaders need to understand. It is not the hostile outburst of an aggrieved staff member, though this may be a symptom just as a shooter in a public place can be a symptom of a broader social despair. It is not the same as dealing with… Continue reading On Organizational Anger
The Other Contagion: Mistrust
Under any circumstances how people perceive they are being treated by their employers either creates greater or lesser trust. The coronavirus pandemic naturally stirs up and may drastically heighten whatever level of trust is part of an existing workplace environment — depending on what the leaders do. A lot has been made of ensuring adequate… Continue reading The Other Contagion: Mistrust
On Workplace Depersonalization
I have been thinking a lot lately about workplace depersonalization. Let me give you a couple of examples. True stories. I go for a doctor’s appointment and am sitting in the waiting area while others check in. One of the receptionists says to an older, incoming patient: “Oh, hello! It’s so nice to see you!… Continue reading On Workplace Depersonalization