In most offices the length and breadth of Ireland, there is usually one person who is constantly moaning and complaining on a daily basis.In some cases, let’s call them less fortunate offices, there may be a number of moaners, who are causing untold damage to staff morale within their own organisations.
Even the strongest and most positive sales teams have been known to crumble after the introduction of a moaner into their team. Someone who constantly complains can cause a drop in morale and negativity can rapidly spread throughout the organisation. Words such as “I can’t”, “I don’t think we have what it takes” point to a very unhappy and negative co-worker.
How does a typical moaners day commence?
The first moan of the day may be in regards the weather. The second moan could be in regards the temperature in the office. The third moan of the day will often be in regards internet connection speed. The fourth moan may be in regards the boss and why didn’t they do what they said they would do. Then the moaner will move onto the government, society being messed up and perhaps something on TV they don’t like. Then back to moaning about awkward customers and co-workers who they consider slackers. And this is just the first ten minutes of the workday. Does the above person sound familiar?
How do you handle office Moan ?
If someone is constantly grumbling at you, tell them politely you are busy at the moment and get back to them later. Often the spontaneous moan will have dissipated by the time you get back to you. Do this on a daily basis and eventually they will get fed up confiding their petty grievances with you.
Of course, we don’t live in a utopia and everyone is entitled to a grumble from time to time. Often it you don’t complain, nothing gets done. However, this is very different to someone whose every utterance during the day is a complaint, which is having a hugely detrimental effect on office morale.
Tomorrows blog will look at how to manage the office moan.
To read about to Managing the Office Moan, please click here >>>
