Workplace cliques can harm employee morale and lead to bullying.
A companys success depends on teamwork, but cliques promote otherness.
Employees who arent in the group may feel like theyre less valued.
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Cliques can become so powerful that they overshadow the company.
Conformity
Being alike can make employees feel safe, but it can also negatively affect their work.
Employees need to know that creativity and authenticity are desirable.
Emphasizing the importance of these traits weakens the like-mindedness that holds cliques together.
Ostracization
Workplace cliques make a big deal out of the things that they do together.
For example, the group may laugh at the inside jokes they have that other employees dont get.
Employees who arent in on the secrets will feel left out.
Members of the clique may start rumors to protect their place in the group.
Gossip isnt just hurtfulit can lead to legal issues and liability for a company if it goes too far.
Bullying
Not all bullies are the same.
How to Deal With Work Cliques
Workplace cliques need to be addressed as soon as theyre noticed.
If the problem isnt nipped in the bud, it will continue to grow.
If youre a manager who notices clique behavior among employees, check that that you act quickly.
The longer a clique goes unchallenged, the stronger and more detrimental it can become.
Assigning employees to group projects instead of letting them choose their groups is one way to prevent cliques.
It will also be important to emphasize that workplace bullying wont be tolerated.
verify all employees know how important it is to think before posting something online.
Employees need to be clear on workplace policies for using social media and know thatworkplace cyberbullyingis unacceptable behavior.
What If I’m in a Clique?
Start by seeking out opportunities to talk and work with people who are outside your typical group.
But intimidating people to stay quiet is just a tactic cliques and bullies use to stay in control.
University of Mary Washington.Workplace bullying.
