Increase Productivity: Reduce workplace stress

As RIFs have reduced headcount and caused more work to be done by fewer people, the result has been increased stress and frustration. Now, since 9-11, the stress factor has taken on new significance; our nation, once deemed safe from outside dangers, has now been proven vulnerable. The result?fear added to the existing stress creates a situation sure to cause lower levels of performance and productivity.

Recently, I heard ?terrorism? defined as, ?An attempt by any force to cause people to be fearful.? Given this definition, there are many sources of terrorism, such as the media by whom we are bombarded daily and other fundamental institutions that consider it their province to tell us what we must do and what will happen to us if we don?t.

Fear causes people to think irrationally and often to act without thinking. Many of the mistakes that are made in the workplace are the direct result of anxiety and feelings of having little or no control over one?s circumstances.

As a leader you can be mindful of these issues and do your best to create a secure environment. Become willing to listen when people need to express their anguish about the uncertain nature of employment relationships and related sources of concern. If you have people traveling, let them have sufficient time to deal with the new security restrictions and if you recognize that people are fearful, don?t hesitate to let them know of your interest and understanding.

A little genuine concern can do much to assuage anxiety and improve performance.