The Normalization of Deviance Could Be Hurting Your TeamNormalization of deviance refers to becoming blasé about counterproductive behavior or activities. The concept applies to processes that become ingrained in a team even though they contribute to negative outcomes, such as slipping deadlines. Employees become so accustomed to the deviance that, to them, it seems normal.
3 Keys to Gaining ConfidenceConfidence is a state of mind. Much of the advice on how to gain confidence revolves around eliminating behaviors that diminish confidence. The idea is that if you effect a confident attitude, others will perceive you as such, and eventually you will be truly confident. Here are three keys to gaining more confidence.
Let the Outdoors Help You Reduce Work StressStudies have found that natural environments can promote positive emotions and heighten physical and mental energy. If you're feeling stressed in the office, try to go outside briefly, take a short walk, commune with the trees if you’re able, and get back to work. You just might feel reinvigorated.
How to Deal with a Manipulative CoworkerManipulation in the workplace can take many forms. It often manifests as one person turning coworkers against each other, spreading rumors, or making people feel insecure—either for the person's own benefit or just for entertainment. If you witness this destructive behavior, there are things you can do to stop it.
Could You Be Addicted to Your Cell Phone?If you've ever experienced a loss of a sense of time while using your phone, persistent failed attempts to decrease phone use, and reactions such as anger, depression, or irritability when your phone is unreachable, you may be addicted to your cell phone. But if you set some limits, you can reclaim your time.
Develop Stronger Client Relationships through Empathetic ActionThere’s a big difference between simply saying "I feel your pain" and displaying evidence of empathy. When dealing with clients' complaints and issues, do more than try to understand what they're going through. Aim to communicate early, often, and with sincere concern. It will improve the situation for them—and you.
Something to Remember When Managing Change at WorkGrieving is usually associated with the loss of a loved one, but it’s equally relevant to loss triggered by changes in the workplace. If you are introducing or overseeing a change, it’s a mistake to belittle people’s reaction to the loss or excessively tout the benefits of the new way. Be sensitive to those affected.
Don’t Assume Bad Intentions When There May Be Another ExplanationThere's a saying: “Never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity.” The possibility of a reasonable explanation for someone’s bad behavior doesn’t mean you have to accept that behavior, but it does suggest that it’s sometimes better to consider the possibility that something else is going on.
