Managing weaponised incompetence in the workplace

Weaponised incompetence in the workplace, if left unchecked, can significantly hamper productivity and strain relationships. It manifests as task evasion, missed deadlines, poor-quality work, and shirking responsibility.

Karen Gately of Corporate Dojo identifies three primary drivers: avoidance, sabotage, or control. Often, it’s a learned behaviour stemming from a culture of blame or fear. The impact includes productivity losses, disengagement, and team conflict. HR professionals can counteract this by fostering a culture of accountability, visibility, and self-sufficiency.

Highlights:

1. Definition: Feigning incompetence for personal gain, manifesting as task evasion and missed deadlines.

2. Drivers: Avoidance, sabotage, and control, often stemming from fear or systemic issues.

3. Impacts: Significant productivity loss, team conflict, and relationship breakdowns.

4. Cost: Knowledge workers in Australia lose up to 600 hours annually due to workplace distractions, equating to $27,585 per employee.

5. Solutions:

• Cultivate a culture of accountability.

• Recognise and reward problem-solvers.

• Ensure easy access to information.

• Clearly communicate expectations.

 

Combat weaponised incompetence and foster a more productive workplace. Read further to explore strategies for addressing this issue effectively.

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Tags: Behaviour Character Collaboration Colleagues Difficult conversations HR Management Office People Personality Relationships Underperformance Underperforming