The People Part

One of the greatest challenges in #nonprofit work is the people part. While most people are well-intentioned, there will inevitably be challenges and conflicts that arise when people work together. A couple of ground rules to keep in mind:

✔ Do not ignore bad behavior. All bad behavior must be addressed. It doesn't matter whether you want to address it or not. A healthy work environment requires unacceptable behavior to be addressed.
✔Everyone is held to the same standard. No playing favorites. Rules for good conduct must be established and equally applied to everyone. It does not matter the length of employment or the position they hold; everyone must comply with written standards of conduct and be called to account when they fall short.

When difficult behavior arises and you seek to address it, remember these key tips:

1️⃣ Focus on the behavior not the person. Certain personalities may rub us wrong. Look beyond the personality and identify what the behavior is that is causing the issue.
2️⃣ Avoid labeling. Labeling is drawing a conclusion or assigning a label to the person based on behaviors. It's not helpful and it limits your ability to address and focus on the behavior rather than the person.
3️⃣ Keep it work-focused. Identify how the behavior impacts the work product or environment. If it’s personal or just your preference, it is irrelevant. If the behavior doesn't impact the work, it doesn't get addressed.
4️⃣ Identify boundaries. Rules and boundaries should be in writing (If it's not in writing, it doesn't exist; if it is in writing it gets followed and enforced.) Outline how the problem behavior violates a written rule or boundary.
5️⃣ Remember the goal. The goal is a productive and healthy work environment. Any effort to address concerns should be #constructive, not personal or vindictive.

Challenges will come, but look to create a culture where good conduct is expected and poor behavior is addressed prudently. Want to take a look at our training at “Difficult Personalities in the Workplace”? Click HERE.

-Mindy Muller, CFRE, President/CEO of CDP

#difficultpersonalitiesintheworkplace #culture #communityculture #nonprofits #nonprofit #personality