Overcoming Negativism in an Organization by Linda Hatcher
"...to build a successful organization and team you must get the right people on the bus." – Jon Gordon
The “just ignore them” rule does not always work with negative people, some of whom are genuinely bent on destruction, not just on withholding positive contribution. While avoiding a negative person might be possible for a co-worker, a leader who has to deal with the big picture cannot afford to have poor skills in resolving the issues caused by these types of people. While we all work hard to stay positive and engender the same in our teams, we know that realistically even one negative person can undermine years of hard work in a short amount of time. Fortunately, specific and directed strategies can neutralize their effects.
In this month’s Leadership Guide Magazine , (CLICK HERE) we have two takes on minimizing negative influences in an organization.
In “Practical Advice for Leading Negative People” (CLICK HERE), we present five specific strategies for dealing with what is known as “energy vampires.” We provide takes from leaders in various sectors who have “been there, done that” and have the practical strategies-t-shirts to show for it.
In a follow-up to last month’s popular articles by Jon Gordon, we have an interview with him in which he proposes the idea of a real negativity buster: “the no complaining rule.” (CLICK HERE). Gordon also discusses a wide range of other views on practical, ethical leadership in the ongoing challenges faced as business continues to evolve. He is an inspirational voice for leaders in all circumstances, including the difficult ones posed by negative people.
The third article ( "Servant Leadership Re-visited ") (CLICK HERE) discusses the characteristics of the most effective leadership style of all-time.
THE SPIRIT OF SERVANT LEADERSHIP:
“Effective leaders follow the basic dictum of a West Pointer: Make sure the troops are settled and fed before you take care of your own needs – Author Unknown
“Who has not served cannot command.” – John Florio