How to Deal with Negativity in the Workplace

Negativity in the workplace is a constant discussion in every consulting or coaching assignment of mine.

• Have you wondered how to deal with that negative employee or customer?
• Have you wondered how to successfully communicate to the negative person without a lot of drama?

If so – this article is just for you!

Negativity in the workplace strategy #1:  It’s our responsibility to start the conversation

My message is very clear on this topic:

Everyone is responsible for the morale of the team – not just leaders.  Both leaders and employees need to speak to negative people about how the negativity impacts morale in the office.

Negativity in the workplace strategy #2:  Five important words 

You will read a phrase that I write in every article – “You get what you tolerate!”

If you are tired of the negativity and you don’t say anything – You get what you tolerate!  You need to do something for things to change.

Negativity in the workplace strategy #3:  Focus on the positive

I’m sure you know people who train their brain to focus only on negative things. Constant complaining stops problem-solving & perpetuates a culture of being stuck and not moving forward.

I heard an interview with a pilot who flew with the blue angels. The blue angels fly their jets only 18 inches apart. The interviewer asked,” How do you do so well?” The pilot said, “We practice, practice, practice.” The interviewer asked, “Why don’t you crash?” The pilot responded, “We don’t practice crashing!”

Negativity in the workplace Strategy #4:  Control the conversation with negative people 

Here’s an idea that can help you deal with those negatoids:

Forget about asking that person how he or she is doing. You will only get complaints about the weather, economy or traffic. Ask the negative person, “What is something good that happened to you today?” This idea forces the negative person to think of something different to say.  It takes discipline to focus on the good things!

More thoughts from Joyce

I hope that these strategies will help you deal with negativity in the workplace.

Learn more about how I help people and organizations turn around negativity in the workplace HERE.

If you enjoyed this information, you may also enjoy these articles:

Steps to Conflict Resolution When Dealing With Angry Clients

Do You Want to Turn Situations Around to Reduce Conflict in the Workplace?

I want to hear from you

Add a comment to my blog on how you deal with negativity in the workplace. What stories or expressions help you get through the stress? You will receive a response from me because I enjoy connecting with my readers! 🙂  You are always welcome to send me a private email with concerns that you are experiencing at work.

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This is Joyce Weiss
Corporate Communication Strategist and Career Coach

Read more articles and listen to podcasts at our Knowledge Base Page Conflict in the Workplace here.

Until next time, Remember…”You Get What You Tolerate!”