Do the right thing, even when it’s uncomfortable

On April 27th came another report of alleged sexual misconduct by a prominent media figure. This time it was Tom Brokaw. The allegations came one day after celebrity Bill Cosby was found guilty of three counts of aggravated indecent assault. Since April, 2017, 211 politicians, celebrities, CEO’s, and others have been accused of sexual misconduct.

A  common theme in most  of these reports is  leaders were aware of the situation and chose not to intervene because the person accused obtained celebrity status or a position of power.

Today’s blog is a plea to leaders to do the right thing when unacceptable conduct or performance occurs in your work culture. Whether your industry is healthcare or manufacturing; whether the unacceptable conduct is bullying or sexual misconduct, it’s your responsibility to intervene.

Celebrity stories aside…

  • What behaviors are being allowed in your organization?
  • What unacceptable conduct is happening that you’re aware of and choose not to address because the employee (or fellow leader) has expert knowledge or drives revenue results?
  • What fears hold you back from having difficult conversations? Fears like how will intervening affect our bottom line if the employee leaves? Worse yet, what if they take their client list with them?

Your avoidance contributes to the behavior and negatively impacts work culture.

Much of my leadership coaching is to help leaders do the right thing by addressing the “elephant in the office.” I help leaders overcome the tendency to avoid difficult conversations and address problem employee performance or conduct.

I understand how uncomfortable and messy difficult conversations can be. Part of my conviction to do this work is because of my own journey to overcome avoidance tendencies. Change is possible. If you’d like to learn more about how to deliver difficult conversations so you protect the health of your work culture, give me a call or send an email.

Start today. Do the right thing – intervene with unacceptable employee conduct… because it’s the right thing to do.

Workplace Conflict Expert Bonnie Artman Fox, MS, LMFT, works with executive leaders and team managers who want to stop divisive behaviors, resolve conflict, and build the team trust needed to create a healthy work culture.  Contact Bonnie to help your employees get along and bring teams together.

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