Whether you refer to this behavior as impoliteness, disrespectfulness or simply resulting from a
lack of manners , pretty much everyone who is in the workforce will face discourteousness in
one way or another.
What is Workplace Discourteousness?
Workplace discourteousness is more than just swearing or crude jokes. It is also that coworker
who is constantly a distraction in the office whilst you are trying to work. Or maybe it is the
coworker who never puts their phone down and ignores you when you are trying to talk to them.
From failing to greet in the morning to a lack of respect for the shared resources in the office
(yes, forgetting to refill the printer with paper is also perceived as discourteous!)
discourteousness can come in many shapes and sizes.
Why is Workplace Discourteousness a problem?
Identifying Workplace discourteousness at its roots is essential. This is because a simple
disregard for others in the workplace can lead to some far more serious issues. If employers
fails to take both a reactive and proactive approach to workplace discourteousness it could lead
to verbal abuse, sexual harrassment or employees threatening each other.
“¾ of employees get put off by discourteous behaviour”
Workplace discourteousness is especially dangerous if your business requires teamwork to
achieve organizational goals on a regular basis. Or if co-workers are required to work in close
proximity daily, discourteousness can have a very real effect on efficiency of operations and can
result in a toxic culture if left to spread it can be contagious.
Studies show that people are sensitive to, and easily influenced by, discourteousness. Even
though it can appear harmless when compared to more serious acts of aggression or conflict. It is highly likely that the knee-jerk reaction to discourteousness will be, yip you guessed it, more
discourteousness. Two wrongs most definitely do not make a right but if disrespectful behavior
is prevalent in your business then chances are co-workers will perceive discourteousness in
others even if it is not intended.
How does Workplace discourteousness influence employees?
Research shows that discourteousness will result in co-workers being less engaged, less
productive and less satisfied at work. You can also expect increased absenteeism and reduced
morale in the workplace.
If that is not enough, a study in Applied Psychology discovered the impact of conflict on
employers in the workplace.
“Managers spend 25% of their time resolving conflict in the workplace.”
Psychology describes a reaction to Workplace discourteousness, also known as anchoring. This
is when individuals hyperfocus on one part of the information which results in biased
decision-making. That is why it is so important, especially as an employer, to snuff out
discourteousness as quickly as possible and to keep a level head when dealing with this
inappropriate behaviour in the workplace.
What are the Consequences of Workplace Discourteousness?
If workplace behaviour is left to fester, it can lead to internal investigations which could result in
employees getting fired. If the offense is serious enough employers may be required to involve
the police and legal action may be necessary.
What’s more is that the workplace culture will be negatively affected. Most employees have to
share resources in the office so workplace discourteousness could lead to conflict between
co-workers. It is also important to state that some employees are dependent on their co-workers
to complete their work, so if this kind of disrespect becomes the norm, work could be delayed as
a result of spiteful intentions.
How to Foster a Kind Work Environment
The role of the employer is essential in this regard. Here are a few tips to assist you in mitigating
workplace discourteousness:
1. Enforce values of respect and empathy in your organization.
2. Have a zero tolerance policy towards workplace discourteousness.
3. Thankfulness is a great tool to assist in fostering a Caring workplace.
Conclusion:
Empathy between co-workers really is important with regards to limiting workplace
discourteousness. If co-workers value each other, they will be less likely to disrespect each
other.
Remember a little kindness goes a long way!