what is the best way to effect change in the workplace?

Answer 1

Within reason, I have been successful effecting change by just doing what it is I think needs done. I know that has been a contributing factor as to why I have managed to work my way up the totem pole of the places I've worked at. I think business owners (and as a manager myself) view these people as self motivated and self starters. Most of us don't want to micro-manage our co-workers. We would prefer them to think for themselves and take the initiative.

I suppose though that it depends on the environment at work, the personality of who you work for and what it is you are trying to change. If it is a hostile work environment toward certain people (race, religion, gender, etc...), a lawsuit might be the only way (that is an extreme case and I do not advocate pursuing that avenue lightly.)

Without more information, I will have to just say, be a self starter.

Answer 2

Take the whole office hostage and present your demands to the world via the ever hungry media. Spell out exactly what you want and then threaten to release the hostages one by one in order of ugliness until they scream at you to stop and listen to your ideas.

Alternatively take your boss out for a drink with some other colleagues and suggest some changes in an informal environment.

IF THIS FAILS GO BACK TO THE HOSTAGE IDEA

Answer 3

the best way to bring about change? if you are a manager or supervisor, the most important thing is to LEAD BY EXAMPLE! If you want to change the rules about something, explain why it would be more efficient/practical/easy/profitable, and then do it yourself to show how well it works.

Answer 4

I wonder what it is exactly that you want to change? My advice would be to do nothing overnight or drastic (unless it is what the Company wants). If you, yourself, are introducing change then I would advise you to do it gently and discreetly. Why do you want the change?... here I go again. Have you asked yourself all the questions first?

Answer 5

I've worked in many negative environments. Unfortunately, change cannot happen alone. A simple smile makes a big difference in such impersonal, but close-quarter environs.

Answer 6

Culture eats policy for breakfast - unless you can change the culture (v. hard) then get out.

Answer 7

Burn the place down! that'll get things changing!

Answer 8

Quit.

Sorry, but it's the honest, brutal truth.

Answer 9

Show up nekid one day

Answer 10

Give it up. You will lose everything and they will all hate you.