Managing Work Cliques
Positive workplace connections can greatly improve your day-to-day experience at work and enhance your overall performance. However, there are instances where close friendships among coworkers can lead to the formation of exclusive cliques that may negatively impact office morale. It is important to address workplace cliques in a professional and effective manner to prevent any harmful effects on the work environment.
What are work cliques? Work cliques are essentially groups of coworkers who spend a significant amount of time together both at work and outside of work. These close-knit friendships often result in the exclusion of other individuals in the office.
Causes of workplace cliques Workplace cliques can form due to a variety of reasons, including similar personality types, length of tenure at the company, working in the same department, being in similar life phases, sharing common hobbies, religious or political affinity, or having shared past experiences. In some cases, individuals who are uncertain about their future at the company may seek solace and comfort in forming cliques with like-minded colleagues. Additionally, top achievers within a company may also gravitate towards forming exclusive cliques.
Indicators of work cliques There are several signs that may indicate the presence of workplace cliques, including certain individuals within a group restricting others from joining, office gossip about colleagues, discouragement of dissent, spreading of rumors, heightened competitiveness among employees, and instances of bullying.
Effects of work cliques on morale and productivity Work cliques can have detrimental effects on both morale and productivity within the workplace. Employees who feel isolated or alienated within a clique may experience a loss of motivation, leading to decreased productivity. Additionally, cliques often limit exposure to new perspectives, ideas, and collaboration, hindering innovation and overall efficiency. Outsiders may feel disengaged from their work if they perceive cliques within the organization as receiving preferential treatment in terms of feedback, recognition, and advancement, leading to decreased engagement and productivity.
Preventing workplace cliques To prevent the formation of harmful workplace cliques, there are several strategies that can be implemented:
1. Build teams: Encourage employees to work and socialize with diverse groups by organizing monthly lunches or community service projects that involve staff from different departments or work levels.
2. Lead by example: Avoid forming cliques yourself and make an effort to interact with a variety of coworkers. Plan lunches with different groups and seek feedback from various staff members on projects.
3. Address cliquemates: Have an open discussion with members of a clique to raise awareness about how their behavior may be excluding or intimidating others. Focus on the impact of their actions rather than placing blame on the group.
4. Connect with clique members individually: Approach members of a clique individually to suggest interactions with other coworkers who share similar interests. This can help broaden their social circle and break down barriers.
5. Maintain non-work interactions: Continue to nurture relationships with friends outside of work to ensure you feel valued and included regardless of workplace cliques.
6. Emphasize company values: Highlight the importance of collaboration and inclusivity by incorporating these values into day-to-day operations and recognizing employees who embody these principles.
7. Promote socialization: Organize regular social events for employees and invite those who may feel excluded. Encourage mingling and introduce individuals to new colleagues during these gatherings.
8. Establish a mentoring program: Pair new hires with experienced employees from different departments to foster cross-group interactions and support. This can help break down cliques and promote teamwork.
9. Enforce corporate policies: Take action against workplace cliques that engage in discriminatory behavior or spread rumors in accordance with company policies and procedures.
By proactively addressing workplace cliques and implementing these strategies, you can help foster a positive and inclusive work environment that encourages collaboration, creativity, and productivity. Remember that diversity and open communication are key to building strong, cohesive teams within your organization.