Why savvy leaders operate above the line

How often do we hear from a friend or family member that their workplace is taking a huge toll on their performance, capacity for teamwork and on their wellbeing?

When the workplace climate is harsh, or hostile, it is detrimental to how we as humans function.

A negative environment significantly affects how our brain works. Our executive brain is less accessible, making it harder to think, relate and learn effectively.

Savvy leaders understand this and recognise they have an influential role in shaping the interpersonal climate. They understand their role is to create a positive workplace ecosystem, one that brings out the best in themselves and their employees.

Wise leaders also know that the culture of a workplace is determined by the worst below-the-line behaviour that they are willing to tolerate.

Many workplace challenges can result from behaviour that is ‘below- the-line’. Bullying, incivility, disengagement, high turnover and low productivity are all manifestations of a workplace functioning far below-the-line. When the poor interpersonal environment slips below what supports humans to function at their best, they are unlikely to achieve organisational success.

Humans need a positive and healthy environment to function well. 

Case example:

Anna recently sought coaching after several challenges with her new manager, Jasmine. Recently, after staying back several hours on an emergency situation, Jasmine ticked Anna off disrespectfully and publicly when she arrived at work, three minutes past her official starting time, the next day.

After other similar issues occurred, Anna respectfully tried to raise her concerns privately with Jasmine. However, Jasmine was unwilling to listen to Anna’s concerns; she rolled her eyes and quickly shut the conversation down.

What below the line behaviours can you see in Jasmine?

I’m sure you can recognise quite a few things that would be negative towards Anna’s best functioning at work.

Healthy interpersonal relationships at work depend on our capacity for empathy, positive relationships, self-awareness and self-management. These skills allow us to see situations from different perspectives including viewpoints with which we may not agree and to cultivate a healthy environment, where people feel psychologically and physically safe.

"Every day you have a choice. You can lift people up or cut them down. Don’t fall for the worst impulses in others. Rise to the occasion and bring out the best in others." - Adam Grant