A work climate is the workplace environment. Business climates affect how well company goals are being met because maximum efficiency, production and employee motivation are impossible when the work environment is poor. Effective workplace climates ensure that employees are clear about their purpose in the larger realm of the company and know exactly what is expected of them. In this way, companies can better function as a whole to meet their goals.
In a poor work climate such as one of ineffective communication and unfocused supervision, the productive goals can become unclear. Employees may lack interest or motivation which is likely to decrease productivity even further. Even if employees are still productive, it may be wasted if they are working on tasks that don’t fit into crucial company goals. In this way, a good climate is one that is supported and enhanced by effective management.
Business climates that work with employees to set and achieve clear goals can be very successful. This is one reason why performance management is so important in many companies today. Regular performance reviews can help motivate employees to keep improving as well as remind them exactly what tasks are expected of them within the work climate. Incentives such as raises, promotions and bonuses for jobs well done further motivate employees to continue their best efforts in the workplace.
Just as weather climates affect people who live in them, the same can be said about a work climate. Healthy, communicative work environments support an efficient work force that is ready to commit daily to its assigned tasks to keep the company running profitably. A poor work environment, on the other hand, doesn’t support a strong, motivated team environment.
Ultimately, positive work climates can drastically reduce employee turnover rates by retaining more employees. Healthy, happy employees are likely to stay in a company longer. High employee turnover rates can be damaging to a business because too much time and resources may be needed such as constantly hiring and training new staff. Employees in a positive workplace climate often go above and beyond their job description to help the company thrive.
What To Do If You Work in a Bad Work Climate
If you find yourself in an unhealthy work environment, you may feel powerless to change it. Despite factors that may be out of your control, there are still plenty of steps you can take to manage your situation.
1. Do Connect With Positive Colleagues
Seek out a colleague who shares similar viewpoints regarding your work climate. Be each other’s sounding board to offload grievances. Brainstorm ideas to improve workplace dynamics. When you need a reprieve from the negativity, collaborate with your co-worker on a work-related activity that will infuse joy into your day.
2. Don’t Engage in Toxic Behavior
It’s easy to get drawn into gossip and bad-mouthing, especially when it surrounds you. If a co-worker starts running the rumor mill or making disparaging remarks about a supervisor or colleague, give a neutral reply and steer the conversation in a different direction.
Conversely, you can model positive workplace behaviors such as communicating respectfully, resolving conflicts peacefully, and demonstrating a strong work ethic.
3. Do Establish Trust With Leadership
From micromanaging to ineffective communication, bosses are common culprits of negative work climates. You can avoid a contentious relationship with your supervisor by being proactive. Clarify their expectations about your role, provide periodic progress updates and follow through on all assignments.
Consistent high-quality work and a team player attitude will demonstrate what an asset you are to your company and allow you to establish trust with your boss. From there, you can seek allyship in eliminating workplace toxicity and promoting a more positive environment.
4. Do Confront Responsible Parties
Whether it’s your boss or a co-worker, you can effectively confront the individual at the center of your workplace drama. Before you approach someone, consider any potential risks that may follow a confrontation such as retaliation or disciplinary action. The nature of your grievance and the level of anticipated risk will determine your course of action.
If you are able to confront the person without an audience, plan your talking points in advance so you can convey your message with confidence and poise.
In a more severe situation, you may want to involve other colleagues, the human resources department or even your union representative if you’re in a unionized setting. Your goal is to take appropriate action before a situation intensifies.
5. Don’t Bring Stress Home With You
While it’s easier said than done, let your work problems stay at work. Venting from time to time can be helpful and cathartic but harping on the same topic can cause workplace negativity to seep into other areas of your life and adversely affect personal relationships.
6. Do Create an Exit Plan
Despite your best efforts, if your job situation becomes unbearable, it’s time to move on to a different setting. Spontaneously quitting is not feasible for most people due to financial obligations. You can, however, prepare a contingency plan well before you intend to leave. Spruce up your resume, tap into your professional network and initiate a job search. Resigning from your position will be that much easier if you have something else already lined up.
What Behaviors Are Considered Criteria for a Hostile Work Environment
Many people have experienced unpleasantness at their jobs, but a hostile work environment is a different ball game that comes with legal ramifications and is characterized by specific behaviors. Hostile work environment claims are substantiated using the following criteria:
- The behavior must be discriminatory against a protected classification such as age, race, gender or disability.
- The conduct must be pervasive and severe enough to significantly disrupt the employees’ work.
- The employer had knowledge of the behaviors and failed to properly address and rectify the situation.
Behaviors that meet the following criteria include:
- Sharing sexually explicit photos
- Telling offensive jokes
- Using racial slurs
- Inappropriate touching
- Acting in a threatening or intimidating manner
How to Create a Positive Work Environment
Managers and human resource professionals are responsible for promoting a healthy workplace culture and they need buy-in from employees to do this successfully. Here are five ways to create a positive work environment:
1. Clearly Communicate Goals
Employees should always know what is expected of them and how their work contributes to company goals.
2. Show Authentic Appreciation
Offer personalized praise that demonstrates sincerity.
3. Solicit Input and Feedback from Employees
Involve employees in decision-making and be open to their ideas.
4. Support Work-Life Balance
Avoid burnout by promoting flexibility and supporting wellness initiatives.
5. Implement a Zero-Tolerance Policy
Prioritize employees’ safety and comfort with a zero-tolerance policy against unethical and illegal conduct.
