Sickness

I’m sick.  No, not in the way that admission made some of you think.  I have a cold.   Now, there’s nothing particularity interesting or unusual about that except that since leaving the corporate world 18 months ago, I haven’t had the pleasure of a sore throat, stuffy nose, and feeling generally crappy.  I’m sure that’s because I’m not as exposed – on trains, in the office, elevators – as I once was (better diet and more exercise hasn’t hurt either, I’m sure!).The reason I bring this up is not to curry sympathy but it got me thinking about how many things spread in offices and how we as managers need to pay attention.  I’m not talking about colds or the flu but these are things that can be just as debilitating.

Rumors.  When the lockout was approaching at the NHL, there were wild rumors circulating about what was going to happen to the staff.  Most were completely untrue, but that didn’t stop them from becoming so bad that nothing was getting done or was taking way too long.   Rumors can wreak havoc just as nasty as a flu epidemic.  Given the economic situation over the last year, I’m sure more than one office’s results have been negatively affected by the paralysis rumors can induce.

What’s the preventive medicine?  First, foster an environment where everyone on the staff feels as if they can come and ask you anything.  You also need to listen actively – ask questions, pay attention to hallway chatter.  Being aware is 99% of the prevention.  Second, if you hear something that you know is wrong, correct it.  If it’s one person, call them in.  If it’s several people, have a meeting.  Third – know your ringleaders.  To whom does the rest of the staff look up?  Who are their sources of information?  You need to let that person know, to the best of your ability (yes, there are corporate secrets you can’t tell even your most trusted co-worker), what’s going on and make sure they disseminate it.

Are you actively listening for rumors and are you attacking them?  Unlike a cold, there is a cure!