What should I do about the negative energy at work?

What you need to know:

Do not let your supervisor’s negative attitude affect yours, it will only make the situation worse. Concentrate on the business goals you and your supervisor are striving for.

There is a lot of negative energy at my work place. My boss always finds a reason to complain about those of us she does not like, even when you do a great job, she will not appreciate your efforts. I am failing to focus in a negative environment. Grace

Dear Grace,
Having a positive workplace is a great way to make an office a safe haven, which increases employee engagement and productivity. A great workplace will openly and excitedly celebrate the accomplishments of its workers.

Dealing with a difficult supervisor is one of the greatest employee challenges, it demotivates and makes day-to-day work life unbearable.

However, it helps to maintain a positive attitude and keep your mind on your work, but the situation will not improve if you do not make an effort to have a constructive and honest discussion with your supervisor.

Request for a private meeting and explain calmly with as little emotion as possible, specifically how his/her behaviour creates a negative workplace environment.

If she/he acknowledges an issue with you or your job performance, you should show a willingness to improve in the areas that are discussed.

Much as this may be a challenge, do not let your supervisor’s negative attitude affect yours, it will only make the situation worse.

Concentrate on the business goals you and your supervisor are striving for. If the situation does not improve or worsens over time, share with the Human Resource department or find a job elsewhere.

Your claims will hold much more weight if you can show that productivity was directly impeded by your supervisor’s behaviour.

Alice Nankya L. Nsibuka
HR business partner
NMG - Uganda
[email protected]