Someone wrote me this last week and shared some concerns with their organization and how it was starting to affect his performance. He asked for my advice. I see this as “Office Drama”. Here’s part of what he shared.
Here are the issues: The company I work for is a very big operation, which involves a lot of people. I'm an introverted type of person; I like to mostly keep to myself. But I admit maybe that hasn't served me well. However, I can honestly say there are some problems here that I might have little control over. Most of the other people in my department have bad attitudes towards the company and also towards men (there are 4 other people in my department- all women). There is not a day that goes by when I don't hear them ripping on men, sometime bashing them pretty bad. They are pretty vocal about it. The men issues, maybe they should talk to the men in their lives directly, but they don't seem to care that I hear it.
Thanks,
R
Dear R,
It's seems you are facing a very - perhaps all too - common issue. Sadly, people are often, way more concerned about what others are doing than what they, themselves can do. As a result, this “office drama” can bring the performance of many down, including, it appears one’s own. My recommendation if you feel you need to say something – be direct – but not confrontational. Something like, “My gosh, you all really have it out for us guys. I hope I’m not on your list.” This can let them know, you are sensitive to what they are saying. But more to what you can, my advice to you is to take these my earlier comments and look honestly at the only person you have direct control over ... yourself. What I mean about that is, if you worry what others are doing - thinking -saying and let it negatively impact your performance and your contribution to the success of your company - you are simply putting yourself at risk ... at risk on many levels, way too many to go into in this response. You only can control your attitude about how you want to make a contribution to the success of your organization. That is why they hired you; frankly that’s why they hire anyone. I would encourage you to keep this notion in the forefront of your mind. Ask yourself - constantly- what am I doing today - right now, that will make a positive difference to this company? How can I go the extra mile in the quality of my work? You do that and everything else will fall into place. You don't - well there are consequences for people who get caught up in the drama and they find them self not pulling the rope in the right directions. Don't be a consequence.
I hope this is not too hard of a message to read, but I feel it's an honest reply to your concern.
As always, take care,
Susie
