Preserving team unity by eliminating disruptive behavior

Have you ever attended a meeting between two teams, during which one team member has verbally attacked a colleague in front of everyone?

This sort of behavior not only causes immediate tension but highlights deeper issues that need to be addressed for the well-being of the team and the organization. Yet, often such individuals believe it is positive, and may even earn them admiration from others.

Workplace meetings are essential for collaboration — idea exchange, problem-solving, project discussions, and many other positive reasons support them. However, they should never be used as a opportunity to attack others, especially your team members. These environments can be significantly disrupted when this happens in front of colleagues. Such behavior not only affects the individuals involved but also creates a toxic atmosphere that undermines team unity, morale, and productivity.

When a team member publicly attacks another, it erodes trust, the cornerstone of any effective team. Trust is vital for fostering open communication and collaboration. Also, when team members feel unsafe or targeted, they are less likely to share ideas or express concerns, leading to a breakdown in dynamics. It creates an environment where people are more focused on avoiding conflict than on their work, leading to decreased job satisfaction and motivation.

The impact of such attacks extends beyond the immediate team. It diverts attention from the task at hand, causing delays and reducing overall efficiency. Moreover, if such behavior is witnessed by clients or external partners, it can severely damage the organization’s reputation. This type of conduct suggests a lack of professionalism and effective management, which can have long-term impacts on business relationships and opportunities.

Understanding why some individuals engage in internal attacks is crucial for addressing the issue. Often, these individuals believe that aggressive behavior will be rewarded. They may think it is a way to show their power or make themselves look important. However, this approach is a quick path to failure. Respect and admiration are earned through positive leadership and collaboration, not through intimidation.

Addressing internal attacks requires immediate intervention and long-term strategies. The first step is to address the behavior privately with the individual involved. It is important to explain the negative impact of their actions clearly and set clear expectations for future conduct. If the behavior persists, involving a neutral third party to mediate the discussion can help find a resolution. Mediation allows for a more structured conversation where both parties can express their perspectives and work towards a mutually acceptable solution.

Promoting a respectful workplace culture is also essential. Establishing and communicating clear policies regarding workplace behavior helps ensure that all team members understand the consequences of unprofessional conduct. Leadership plays a critical role in this process by modeling respectful behavior. When leaders demonstrate professionalism, they set the standard for the entire team, reinforcing the importance of respectful interactions.

Providing training and support can also help address and prevent internal attacks. Offering conflict resolution training equips team members with the skills needed to handle disagreements constructively. Additionally, providing access to resources such as counseling or coaching can support individuals struggling with their behavior, helping them develop healthier ways to interact.

Another effective strategy is to isolate individuals who consistently engage in disruptive behavior by not inviting them to important meetings with other teams. However, eliminating the effects of their absence, especially if their expertise is needed, requires careful planning. One approach is to gather their input before the meeting. This can be done through written reports, one-on-one discussions, or pre-meeting briefings where they can share their insights without being present during the actual meeting. Additionally, fostering a culture where other team members can step up and fill the gap ensures that the meeting can proceed smoothly.

Encouraging open communication within the team is another vital strategy. Creating safe channels for team members to provide feedback and report concerns ensures that issues are addressed promptly. Regular check-ins with the team can help identify ongoing issues and reinforce the importance of mutual respect.

In conclusion, addressing the issue of internal attacks is crucial for maintaining a healthy and productive work environment. By taking immediate action, promoting a culture of respect, and providing necessary support and training, organizations can prevent such behavior from undermining team dynamics and morale. Fostering a respectful and collaborative workplace benefits everyone, leading to greater job satisfaction and overall success.

• Firas Abussaud is a petroleum engineering systems specialist with more than 21 years of experience in the industry.