I joined this firm as a senior manager last year.  From the beginning, I’ve been appalled by the unprofessional behavior of some employees.  I’ve heard foul jokes in the break room, swearing in the hallways, snide remarks at meetings, and yelling over the telephone.  I have made it clear at staff meetings that I expect everyone to behave professionally, but the bad behavior continues.  Some say this is the way it’s always been so there’s no point in trying to change it.  Is it too much to expect that everyone behave professionally at work?

Absenteeism, high turnover, harassment claims, and a bad reputation are just a few of the organizational costs when people are not held accountable for inappropriate behavior in the work place.  So don’t give up – instead jump start your change effort by:

Defining professional behavior – as it applies to your setting.  The word professional brings to mind a variety of images that are oftentimes dependent upon the setting in which it is applied.  Be specific about what is appropriate and what isn’t; sometimes accepted behavior that is simply bad behavior that is not addressed, becomes the standard for acceptable behavior.  Be sure to get input from staff and to include any standards of conduct or ethical guidelines that are required of your staff by licensure or professional associations to which they belong.

Explaining expectations – and consequences for bad behavior.  Go over the definition - as well as any other guidelines for governing behavior that your organization has in place - with all staff so there is common understanding about how things will be interpreted.  Make sure that it is understood that the expectations apply to everyone so that appropriate behavior is being modeled, especially by those in leadership positions.  Be clear about consequences and follow through on them when necessary.

Addressing inappropriate behavior individually.  Deal quickly, privately, and directly with the person who needs a behavior change.  General comments at a staff meeting rarely have the desired effect on those who need the message, and those who don’t just feel scolded when they did nothing wrong.  Be prepared to specifically describe the bad behavior, the reason it’s not acceptable, and your expectation for the future.  Be sure to state any consequences for future infractions and follow through on them when necessary.

Expecting professional behavior from all members of an organization sets the stage for a productive, efficient work environment - and is just plain good business.

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