Nurturing a Health Work Culture: The Importance of Internal Locus of Control and Avoiding Narcissism
What Qualities Are Most Important to You in an Employer?
The most critical attribute that employers seek in their employees is internal locus of control. This means taking responsibility for situations and working towards resolving them. Employees with an internal locus of control understand that even when faced with challenges, they can find a way to manage and mitigate the situation. Conversely, those with an external locus of control blame external forces and take little responsibility for their actions. For instance, an employee with an internal locus of control might be late due to traffic but will adjust their schedule to arrive on time the following day. An employee with an external locus of control may refuse to change their schedule or help clean up a mess, instead blaming others.
Internal Locus of Control vs. External Locus of Control:
An internal locus of control focuses on self-management and problem-solving. An external locus of control attributes situations to external factors and avoids responsibility.Understanding the Needs of Companies and Employee Characteristics
When hiring employees, the characteristics required can vary greatly depending on the company's needs. Drawing from my 50 years of experience as an employer and management consultant, I've identified several key traits that are paramount.
Prerequisites for Employers:
Good verbal and written communication skills, even if additional training is needed. Prior experience or potential for working in a team environment. A nascent or evolving self-awareness.Interviewers often lack proper training in conducting interviews, and this can lead to a flawed hiring process. Therefore, evaluating candidates based on clear and actionable metrics is crucial.
Identifying and Avoiding Narcissism in the Workplace
One of the most significant challenges employers face in their hiring process is identifying and avoiding narcissistic individuals. Narcissism is not merely about vanity; it involves a profound lack of empathy and a sense of entitlement. Here's how to recognize and avoid such individuals:
1. Seek Constructive Team Players
The best way to avoid hiring a narcissist is by looking for individuals who are team-oriented and willing to take feedback constructively. Narcissists seek to micromanage their teams and are prone to creating an unhealthy, chaotic environment where they amass credit for themselves while discrediting their peers.
2. Use Quantifiable Metrics
Companies tend to get sidetracked by nebulous values, creating confusion and noise. This atmosphere thrives on narcissism. Focus on quantifiable metrics and clear action items when evaluating candidates. A narcissist will often make grandiose claims about their abilities but struggle to back them up with evidence.
3. Pay Attention to Behavioral Indicators
Narcissists often blame others for their failures and deflect responsibility. They tend to refer to themselves as "superbly qualified" despite clear indications that they are not. Narcissists may off-load responsibilities to others to avoid taking blame.Be wary of candidates who display these behaviors. A healthy workplace culture thrives on mutual respect and accountability. A narcissistic individual can poison this atmosphere, leading to decreased morale and productivity.
Conclusion
While the importance of internal locus of control cannot be overstated, it is equally crucial to be vigilant about avoiding narcissism in the workplace. Companies that value constructive interaction and clear accountability will create a more stable and productive environment. By fostering a culture that encourages open communication and mutual respect, employers can attract and retain top talent, ensuring a successful and harmonious work environment.