While most HR managers are busy charting out novel techniques to foster team spirit among employees, experts believe that a close-knit team comes with its own share of troubles. As more and more youngsters are taking up CXO roles, aggression at the workplace is the latest cause of concern for corporate chieftains as it is not uncommon to see bottled up slights and outbursts at meetings. They not only ruin the work atmosphere, but also tarnish the professional image of the person involved too.
Priya Chetty-Rajagopal, vice president, Stanton Chase International, explains, “To effectively resolve antipathy, you should realise that you’re just a tool to deliver tasks. There is no room for personal prejudices at the workplace. Although our work mates or managers may be like our extended family, it is important to be politically correct and not cross the line. On days when one feels choked up, you can always restate the problem later when things have calmed down.”
Corporate coach Sushma Bernett says it is mandatory to be in control of your emotions at the workplace. “Most offices have a policy of zero tolerance towards anger. Tolerating anger can send the wrong message to the people. At most places of employment wearing your heart on your sleeve is not only taboo, but also may cause you to miss out on promotions, or worse you may get fired. So, to avoid such mishaps you need to always look at the larger picture and think from the management’s point of view. One should also forego their ego and tackle the situation with maturity. Moreover, one should know how to be assertive without being aggressive.”
Segregating oneself from the ‘piece of work’ is the best way out, according to Harish Bijoor, managing director of Harish Bijoor Consults Inc. He says, “When things go haywire, it is important to understand that it not you who is been attacked but it’s the piece of work which everyone’s concern. Taking criticism constructively is a must. Another factor, which one should steer clear of, is double standards. If you set up a deadline for others, you must follow the same timelines too.”
Some others believe that defusing emotional outbursts is unlike any other managerial responsibility because a manager usually cannot prepare for the outburst. Aroon Raman, managing director of Raman FibreScience Private Limited, says, “Outbursts of any kind are a no-no. And due to increasing cases of such unprofessional behaviour, managers are now looking for employees who apart from the job skills have an excellent emotional quotient too. Top successful leaders rarely lose their cool, as they know how to keep a check on your emotions. And for that self-awareness is vital. You should exactly what you want and what you’re working towards.”