How do you respond when someone acts like they are policing the workplace? They pull people up using policy, procedure or previous communication and let them know why and how what they are doing is wrong. More often than not, the response is defensive, aggressive or dismissive. I know that’s how I respond. How about you?
But I’ve been on both sides of that coin. As a leader, we are often accountable for significant regulatory and compliance issues in our area. Sometimes, the consequence of getting that stuff wrong is career or organisation damaging (And possibly ending). Lack of knowledge, or attention to detail from other members of a team adds risk and stress to the leader's shoulders.
A heavy handed policing approach rarely gets people on the same page - we humans avoid that stuff like the plague. Most of us get a heart rate spike if we see a police car on the road, even if we are doing nothing wrong. It's the same in the work place.
Leading that way causes push back, excuses, blame, and clumsy work arounds. They make you feel as if more policing is needed, which causes more defensive reactions - and around it goes.
A better approach is to act like a teacher or mentor. Help people discover and understand why those pieces of compliance are so important. Even better if you can help them see a connection to their own work priorities. Share your knowledge and experience.
Where do you act like police at work? How could you change that this week?