This is definitely going to set some hares running.
I am not in favour of physical punishment as a rule, truly I am not. However, there seems to be a general backlash against any sort of punishment – in the workplace, that is. We must cosset and protect, not speak too harshly, temper our voices rather than voice our tempers, and above all, make sure we don’t melt anyone.
Once upon a time, in an office far, far away, you were given absolutely clear indications when your work was just not good enough or when you had dropped a clanger of mighty proportions. We knew where we stood, and that little bit of anxiety about getting a telling-off kept us focused and more alert to what was needed of us. We shouldn’t be pushing people over the edge, but when did the edge move in so close?
Customer service (a favourite topic of mine) is an increasingly important focus of attention. A well-known energy company is pushing its customers’ alleged satisfaction live on air as a marketing tool, and we all expect more and more from our suppliers; whoever looks at those with less than five stars?
Yet, how can we ensure great service if we shy away from those difficult performance conversations for fear of upsetting someone? Life is tough and getting tougher.
In these days of “ethical walls,” should we bring back the “ethical burn”?