In today's inter-generational work environment, some people in the diverse
workforce approach their daily routine differently. For example, some of
staffers may show great initiative while others simply wait for
assignments to come to them. Still others avoid taking risks out of concern
that their ideas may not yield desired results. Often employees are judged
based on the path they use to take on work projects.
As result, we may create perceptions of our peers based on first
impressions that may not always be rooted in fact. These perceptions are based
on our feelings and may not always be rooted in fact. For example, one type of
work place perception is the "office hero." You know the type; they
are always "leaping over defeat in a single bound." They may often
brag about accomplishing things on behalf of others by doing solo work. Then
the person maligns their peers with a statement about "stepping up to meet
the challenge." An example of this was displayed on a recent episode of
the TV show "Suits" in which the character Luis Litt tried to make
himself the hero to impress another partner at his law firm.
This type of fabricated "heroism" can create animosity among colleagues,
especially those always singled out as not contributing to the overall good of
team, despite their best efforts.
Another work place personality is the "martyr." Their daily
diatribe is focused on being burdened with too much work while others simply do
nothing. Every time this person speaks, it seems like the song "Don't Cry
for Me Argentina" begins wafting through your mind. Their mantra is a
"woeisme" scenario where they distill story after story about being
the only ones working no matter the size of the office or team.
For every office, there is a perceived villain in each work place narrative.
This person or persons are identified as the sole reason for halting progress.
Sometimes when stories about heroes, villains and martyrs continue to spin
through cubicle havens, people may begin to think that what is perceived
is actually reality.
On the TV show suits, often the character of Luis Litt lashes out to hurt
others at work when his effort to be the hero and the martyr simultaneously
does not work. His lack of emotional intelligence can be detrimental to others.
Also, consider the fact that sometimes we try to make ourselves the hero of the
office narrative as a way to bring attention to our overlooked work and
aspirations. As a result, when some perceive their coworkers always as the
villain, martyr or hero they tend to forget that they missed out on an
opportunity to get to know the truth about that person via real world work
experiences.
So, what can be done to reduce or stop the cycle of inaccurate work place
personalities based on perceptions? Get up front your desk and get to know the
other people inside and outside of your team. Volunteer for tasks that will
allow you to follow others lead instead of always wanting to lead the pack to
greatness. Learn more about your colleagues’ motivations and begin to share
insight into how you operate as well. Then share information about
opportunities that will allow both of you to grow professionally.
Today's employee may seek a work life balance, solid wages
and a great path forward in their chosen field. It is truly a gift to
work with a group of highly trained professionals with a focus on a
common goal. It also helps to identify your personal career goals so
that the path forward incorporates your needs as an employee.