by James Canada
Competition pushes companies to be innovative to stay in the marketplace. However, there is a serious downside to a competitive work environment. For instance, a manager who pits two employees against each other for one position creates an environment of mistrust. The employees are more likely to exercise dishonesty to get the job. On the other hand, the inadequate structure of a company can lead to an environment of mistrust.
While working with Reuters, I discovered the head of facilities was encouraging his department directors to compete against each other. He even took advantage of those who wanted to stay in his good graces by getting favors from them. When there is too much division among responsibilities, it can give rise to mistrust. I decided to stop all of the competition by merging the departments. For example, by combining the facilities with the cafeteria, operations ran smoother and the internal competition was eliminated.
The same applies to the entrepreneur world. Don’t subdivide responsibilities and have people working against each other behind the scenes. Give employees the tools to be successful and hold them accountable for completing their work. Be consistent in what you say and do for clients and employees. Make it a priority to maintain your integrity. Be willing to admit when you are wrong or make a mistake. Transparency with clients and employees goes a long way to develop trust. Do not hesitate to move out employees who do not respond to mentoring and coaching.
Competition in the marketplace is essential for a company’s success; it’s the last thing needed in our work environments, especially when it generates mistrust. Instead, give your employees the support and tools to thrive and be successful.
James H. Canada is managing partner/CEO for Alliance Technologies LLC, ITEN mentor and author of “Corporate to Entrepreneur: Strategies for Success.” Contact Jim at james.canada@alliancetechnologiesllc.com, 636-734-2337 or www.alliancetechnologiesllc.com.
Submitted 3 years 356 days ago