Before delineating the various aspects of a healthy organization. I want to present what an unhealthy, dysfunctional organization looks like. We have to be able to identify poor organizational activities, before we can address them and implement improvement measures. Below are the various activities, beliefs and aspects associated with an unhealthy organization:
- Management exercises control over people often.
- Intimidating behaviors are being used.
- Individuality is restricted.
- Management ignores real problems.
- High stress and burnout is common.
- Poor morale and job satisfaction is present.
- Management expects perfectionism.
- Management's viewpoint is the only viewpoint.
- Inflexibility is common place.
- Focus is on conformity.
Key Principles
#1 - Strive for a win-win outcome.#2 - Treat others the way you would want to be treated.Next, let's take a look at what a good healthy organization looks like. A healthy organization will establish an environment that is positive for the employees and the organization. Today money is not enough; employees want more personal and professional fulfillment. It is incumbent upon leaders to help make the work place, one in which employees feel good their participation. Below are the indicators of a healthy organization:
- Employees are empowered to make decisions.
- Communication is open and direct.
- Communication is based on honesty.
- Feedback and input is the norm.
- Employee manipulation is minimized.
- Employees are given expectations.
- Problems are addressed, not ignored.
- People tend to be more committed.
- People can express their opinions and viewpoint.
- High ethics and values are exhibited.
- Employees are respected and valued.
- Appreciation for contributions is the norm.
- Mistakes and accidents are tolerated and considered normal.
- Management is flexible in their approach.
- Employees interact with sincerity.
- Creativity is allowed and encouraged.
- A supportive environment is present.
In conclusion, if we create a healthy work environment, all will benefit from it. There will be a reduction of turnover of personnel and sick leave usage. It will increase job performance and productivity. Employees will be committed and will go above and beyond. Employees will have high morale and increased job satisfaction. The employee will be healthier, physically and emotionally.
It is crucial for us as leaders to promote an environment that strives to help not hinder employees. To develop a trusting, caring, collaborative work place. To help reduce workplace stress and conflict. Finally, to create the best organization with the highest employee morale and the highest level of productivity, commitment and efficiency as possible.
Reference:
- When Money Is Not Enough, Eileen R. Hannegan, Beyond Words Publishing, Inc., Hillsboro, Oregon 1995.