High Personal Engagement Brings High Pressure…
Regardless of the outcome, personal high engagement is ALWAYS worth the effort
Author: Rob LeBoeuf
Highly engaged individuals bring energy, creativity, and a proactive approach to their work. Their enthusiasm distinguishes them, but it can also unintentionally highlight the disengagement of others. This contrast may create tension in the workplace, as less engaged employees might feel threatened or insecure.
Understanding the Dynamic:
Press enter or click to view image in full size
Perceived Threat: A highly engaged colleague can pressure others to elevate their performance, potentially resulting in defensive behaviors such as passive-aggressive comments or attempts to undermine the engaged employee’s contributions.
Cultural Resistance: In some organizational cultures, the status quo is often prioritized over innovation. Highly engaged individuals may challenge this norm, inadvertently creating friction with peers or supervisors who favor consistency.
Power Dynamics: Supervisors or colleagues may feel their authority is challenged when a team member displays proactivity and commitment. This can prompt efforts to reassert control, discouraging engaged behavior.
Strategies to Overcome These Challenges:
Stay Resilient: Continue to showcase your best work. Your commitment is invaluable, and the right leaders will recognize and appreciate your efforts.
Communicate Openly: If you face resistance, engage in open dialogue. Addressing concerns directly can help diffuse tensions and foster mutual understanding.
Build Alliances: Connect with like-minded colleagues who share your commitment and values. Creating a supportive network can help you maintain high engagement levels.
Lead by Example: Maintain positivity and integrity in your actions. Your behavior can inspire others, gradually shifting the workplace culture towards greater engagement.
Focus on Growth: Use any resistance as a learning opportunity. Reflect on how you can further develop your skills and influence within the organization.
By remaining committed to excellence and staying true to your values, you can navigate challenges and contribute to a more engaged and dynamic workplace culture.
Navigating Resistance from the Old Guard
In organizations undergoing a turnaround, one of the most significant challenges is often the old guard, who resist change and cling to outdated practices. If founders or owners remain involved, these challenges can multiply. Such individuals may feel threatened by new leadership and initiatives, leading to friction that undermines progress.
In the presence of an entrenched old guard, your role becomes even more vital. You embody the integrity and work ethic necessary to drive the organization forward. While the challenges may sometimes feel overwhelming, your ability to adapt, communicate, and lead with purpose will ultimately make a significant difference.
When Resistance Becomes Overwhelming
It can be disheartening when those who should support your efforts instead create barriers to success. This resistance can lead the organization to revert to previous practices, undermining the progress that has been made.
If the opposition becomes insurmountable, you may feel compelled to move on. In cases where friction arises from above, don’t be surprised if you are asked to leave. However, it’s likely that you will have gained valuable insights from the experience.
Remember, your goal was to help shift the culture towards one that embraces engagement and growth. At the very least, your efforts will have resonated with like-minded individuals, creating a lasting impact. Their transition to higher levels of engagement will likely propel them toward greater success in their personal careers. This outcome, in itself, is a testament to your efforts and worth every ounce of energy invested.