Drama in the workplace is more dangerous than it seems.

Drama in the workplace is more dangerous than it seems. It is a leading cause of stress for co-workers and managers. It is also a major cause of absenteeism, presenteeism, and job loss. These invisible assailants cost companies billions in lost revenue due to employee under-performance, illness and high employee turnovers.

Whether a job is lost due to poor work performance or voluntarily, it most likely begins with drama in the workplace. Drama in the workplace can include harassment, bullying, ostracism, and victimization. Drama in the workplace might seem harmless enough, but it diminishes self-esteem, undermines integrity in the workplace, and can have devastating emotional and financial effects.  Workplace drama can lead to job loss, loss of family and friends, and emotional disorders, such as PTSD and depression. Untreated emotional disorders increase the risk of suicide.

Untreated depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Employers lose $44 billion each year due to depression. Effective leaders are aware of anything that effects work performance and they realize the importance of making workers feel competent and appreciated. Effective leaders are aware of individual and team efforts, but mostly, they are aware of their role in assuring the emotional well-being and safety of all personnel within the workplace environment. Protecting the workplace environment begins with minimizing workplace drama. 

Minimizing workplace drama means taking responsibility for the workplace environment and focusing on the needs of personnel.Tips from a webiner presented on 2/28/2013 by American Staffing Association at www.Americanstaffing.net include the following:

1. Identify the main challenges that cause team drama.

2. Understand the root cause of the drama & take specific actions to minimize it.

3. Create an environment and culture where teammates support one another in serving customers and accomplishing goals.

4. Hold team members and key leaders accountable for elementary drama

A healthy workplace environment begins with a strong leader who understands the nature of workplace drama and understands its effects. Minimizing workplace drama relies on:

• Good communication
• Teamwork and partnerships
• Spirit of customer service
• Accountability
• Solving problems