One of the best ways to combat a problem is to know its symptoms. An easy way to identify its symptoms is as simple as thinking back to a time where you were unhappy with your job – or worse than unhappy. Start a list. Add to that list by asking fellow business owners, managers, and employees about their experiences.
Know thy enemy, and know thyself.
Sun Tau
Another excellent method is to make a list of positive traits and aim to create an environment in which those statements and traits hold true. That’s next on my list of articles, and I’ll link it when it’s posted!
Here is a list of factors which are associated with demoralization to get you started. If you see multiple symptoms, you may have cause for concern.
- Disrespect
- Short-sighted Management
- Lack of Meaningful Recognition
- Underutilization of Skills & Talents
- Lack of Growth Opportunities
- Gaslighting
- Favoritism
- Playing Games with Numbers
- Micromanagement & “Subtractive” Leadership
- Toxic Positivity
- Toxic Environment
- Hypocrisy
- Keep-your-head-down mentality