On Monday we presented how bad behavior in business is not uncommon; and more prevalent is the justification and oversight around it (verses changing the behavior)!
Bad behavior in business (outside of egregious, illegal or unethical acts which we are not addressing) takes form in general business practices, which we reference as hard skills. The more intangible elements of behavior are what we are addressing today, as they are less often attended to, and we believe, equally important to your success.
Examples of bad behavior from the hard skill level include things like: not returning calls and emails in a timely manner, missing deadlines, showing up late, and being unprepared or uninformed respective to business. The more intangible elements often involve relationships and impression, and this is where we focus today.
While not a comprehensive list, here are some quick indicators to help you gain insight into whether you are playing in this minefield.
1. Do you ask for feedback and ideas from others? (In other words, do you tend to believe your way is always the best way so you don’t even care to ask others for input?) Hubris is the technical name for this – and it is not fondly received.
2. Do you sincerely consider feedback and ideas of others, especially your key stakeholders, prior to making your decision and formulating action? (You should!)
3. Do you ask people for their time to listen to you and to give you ideas, thoughts, direction and guidance without any intent of reciprocating?
4. Do you demonstrate appreciation and gratitude to those that have helped you? (Gratitude and humility are positive leadership traits.)
5. Do you give credit due, and not take the “claim to fame” when others have initiated or contributed to the success of something? (This goes back to a fundamental principle – don’t steal from others.)
6. Do you think you already know everything you need to know to be successful now and in the future? (This feeds back to number 1— hubris… you must continue to learn in order to grow.)
7. Are you more attached to your own ideas and ways, then to the overall success of the project or organization? (Referenced as “agenda attachment” and it’s a complimentary behavior and in a negative way to number 1 and 2)
8. Are you rude, inpatient and overly trite with others. (Simply lacking manners, poise and courtesy.)
9. Do you treat others, especially subordinates and those serving you as less than you or as if they were insignificant? (Just plain bad behavior.)
10. And, do you blame, justify and make excuses when someone approaches you regarding your bad behavior? (Ignorance does not trump what is right.)
First, don’t fret. The truth is that we all demonstrate some levels of bad behavior, and it is usually in times of stress and pressure. The trick is to: recognize that you can slip into these bad behaviors, understand which are likely for you, and do your best to prevent or mitigate them so that they do not become your normal behavior.
This level of work is for the courageous and growth oriented, who are willing to consider that ultimate success begins with your talent, but can end with your behavior.
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