Countering coercion at work

“Coercion cannot but result in chaos in the end” (Mahatma Gandhi)

The trip on the metro was neither therapeutic nor overwhelming. It was just a means to an end — getting to work on time. In fact, a crowded train didn’t really provide the environment for reflection for Joe, so he found that thinking about his miserable existence took place when he should have been resting. The hollowness that clawed at his gut was driving him to despair. Speaking to colleagues about issues that they faced produced no tangible results and, anyway, just made him more bitter. He wasn’t alone in his feelings. That he knew, as others also expressed their distaste, even abhorrence, for the manipulative tendencies of the boss, but having others on his side didn’t take away the pain or any feelings of shame. Walking from the station along the crowded pavement, he wondered why he was not strong enough to stand up to his boss. He had attempted talking about his feelings before, particularly as they related to his boss’s approach, but his sincere comments were met with rebuttal and disdain. Arriving at the revolving door of the office block, he shrugged and waited his turn to follow the numb employees inside. He realised that, as he needed the income, survival was his only option — he would have to learn how to survive.

There are probably many employees that can relate to Joe’s story, their bosses being manipulative in getting what they want done. Their veiled or explicit threats create an environment of duress, where employees are forced to act in a way contrary to their own interests. It involves the use of forceful words and actions that violate the free will of an individual to induce a desired response. The psychological fallout is profound, often resulting in pain compliance — the acquiescence of the employee to comply with the boss’s demands to reduce or remove the pain. Sexual harassment, denial of privileges, threats, demotion and loss of bonuses all lead to a chaotic culture which renders focus and energy being applied appropriately impossible.

Shegerian & Associates suggest five ways to prevent coercion in the workplace, viz.:

1. Follow a zero-tolerance policy for harassment — stop any unfavourable boss behaviour immediately and automatically discipline those who break regulations.
2. Have open communication lines — better communication means better job satisfaction, loyalty and mutual respect within the organisation, which will boost productivity and foster a positive work environment.
3. Conduct training for managers and leaders — provide managers and supervisors with leadership training to assist them in getting the knowledge and abilities needed to become a leader who respects and is fair to employees.
4. Code of conduct — define acceptable and inappropriate conduct in your policy document. Be precise about the types of actions that result from power abuse.
5. Intervention — if you notice abuse of authority or bullying, take swift action to stop it. Make clear that professional conduct is expected from all employees.

Countering coercion is critical to create a cooperative culture at work. Gandhi is right — coercion cannot but result in chaos in the end.

Originally published at https://www.stretchforgrowth.com on August 18, 2024.