Managing Work Cliques
Positive workplace connections can contribute to a more enjoyable workday and improved performance. However, when intimate friendships turn exclusive and begin to hinder office morale, it becomes necessary to address workplace cliques in a professional and effective manner to prevent any harmful effects.
What exactly are work cliques? Work cliques are groups of coworkers who spend a significant amount of time together and often socialize outside of work. These close-knit friendships can lead to the exclusion of other colleagues, creating an "us vs. them" mentality within the workplace.
There are various factors that can lead to the formation of workplace cliques, including shared interests, sentiments, personalities, or similarities among employees. For example, employee cliques may form based on:
- Similar personality types - Longest tenure at the company - Belonging to the same department - Being in similar life stages - Sharing common hobbies - Religious or political affiliations - Sharing certain experiences
These commonalities can help bond employees together, creating a sense of comfort and support within the group. However, this bonding can also lead to exclusivity and isolation of others within the organization.
Recognizing the signs of workplace cliques can help address any potential issues before they escalate. Some common indicators of work cliques include:
- Certain employees actively excluding others from joining their group - Office gossip targeted at specific individuals - Employees discouraging dissent or differing opinions - Spreading and/or hearing rumors within the office - Increased competitiveness among staff - Instances of workplace bullying
The effects of work cliques on morale and productivity within the organization can be significant. Employees who feel isolated or excluded may experience a lack of motivation, leading to decreased productivity. Furthermore, members of cliques may limit their exposure to new perspectives, ideas, and collaborations by primarily interacting with the same group of individuals. This can hinder innovation and overall corporate efficiency.
In addition, if certain employees within cliques receive preferential treatment, recognition, or advancements, other staff members may become disengaged and disinterested in their work. This perceived favoritism can lead to a sense of discontent and decreased productivity among employees.
To prevent workplace cliques from forming and to address any existing cliques in the office, organizations can consider the following strategies:
1. Build diverse teams: Encourage employees to work and socialize with colleagues from different departments or work levels. Plan activities that bring together diverse staff members to foster connections and promote inclusivity.
2. Lead by example: Avoid forming cliques yourself and spend time with a variety of coworkers. Mix up lunch groups and seek input from different staff members on projects.
3. Address the issue directly: Meet with members of cliques to discuss how their behavior may be affecting others. Encourage them to be more inclusive and considerate of their colleagues.
4. Meet individually with clique members: Engage with members of the clique on a one-on-one basis to understand their interests and suggest interactions with other employees who share similar interests.
5. Maintain non-work connections: Continue building relationships outside of work with a diverse group of colleagues to feel valued and included within the organization.
6. Emphasize company values: Highlight the importance of collaboration and teamwork within the organization. Reinforce these values through office decor, training programs, and recognition of employees who embody these principles.
7. Encourage socialization: Organize regular employee social events and invite all staff members, including those who may feel excluded. Introduce new employees to others at these gatherings to foster connections.
8. Establish a mentoring program: Pair new hires with experienced employees from different departments to encourage cross-group interactions and collaboration.
9. Enforce company policies: Address workplace cliques that engage in exclusionary behaviors or spread rumors by enforcing the company's policies and disciplinary procedures outlined in the employee handbook.
By taking proactive measures to address and prevent workplace cliques, organizations can create a more inclusive and supportive work environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, and productivity among employees.