How to prevent inappropriate workplace behaviour

Inappropriate behaviour in the workplace can refer to any actions that are unprofessional and can hinder the productivity of other employees

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Indeed

Some behaviours in the workplace create tension and stress for both co-workers and managers – and can eat up hours of management time trying to resolve the issues that arise as a result. However, there are precautionary measures which organisations can take to avoid inappropriate workplace behaviour..

Hire the right people

During the hiring process you can ask questions that will help you to identify and reject candidates who seem prone to behaving inappropriately. Hiring professional people who aren’t likely to disrupt the general workflow can have a beneficial impact on the productivity and success of a company. Here are some interview questions you can consider asking to avoid hiring candidates who are more likely to behave inappropriately at work: 

• Have you ever been directly involved in a workplace conflict?
• How do you feel about workplace gossip?
• What do you think the consequences of inappropriate workplace behaviour should be?
• How do you communicate with colleagues in the workplace?

Provide employee support

Establishing professional and supportive relationships between employees and supervisors can reduce the possibility of inappropriate workplace behaviour occurring. For example, an employee that’s struggling to meet deadlines, and is acting rashly in the workplace, may be having issues in their personal life. A more open and communicative work environment can help supervisors identify and rectify the issue by discussing solutions with the employee, such as providing them with an extended break.

Be transparent

Being transparent with employees when outlining which behaviours are acceptable and those which aren’t can help increase their understanding of inappropriate behaviour. Gossiping typically occurs when there’s a lack of transparency in an organisation, such as why management promoted certain employees, how supervisors delegate duties or how the company calculates bonuses. More transparent and specific guidelines can help in addressing any incidents and ensuring fair treatment of all employees. 

More comprehensive onboarding processes

Onboarding involves introducing new employees to an organisation. The onboarding process usually involves an orientation which helps new employees to become familiar with the operations of a company; this helps to welcome new employees and provides them with necessary resources and help them start fulfilling their duties immediately. The onboarding process provides an excellent, early, opportunity to outline what behaviour is and isn’t acceptable in the workplace, so that new employees have a strong awareness of a company’s policies.