Breaking all the Social Norms to improve productivity (a bit counterintuitive)

Social norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that govern behavior in our society. These norms are deeply ingrained in our culture and can be difficult to challenge or change. However, when it comes to the workplace, deconstructing these social norms can lead to a more inclusive, innovative, and successful business.

Here are a few reasons why deconstructing social norms in the workplace is good for business:

1. It fosters innovation and creativity. When you challenge traditional norms and encourage diverse perspectives, it opens the door to new ideas and approaches. By breaking down barriers and embracing new ways of thinking, you can drive innovation and creativity in your business.
2. It promotes inclusivity and diversity. Social norms can often be exclusionary, creating barriers for people who don’t fit into the mold. By deconstructing these norms and promoting inclusivity and diversity, you can create a more welcoming and supportive workplace for all employees.
3. It enhances employee engagement and satisfaction. When employees feel that their perspectives and contributions are valued, they are more likely to be engaged and satisfied with their work. By embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity, you can create a workplace where all employees feel valued and supported.
4. It improves customer relationships. Deconstructing social norms can also help you better understand and connect with your customers. By challenging traditional assumptions and embracing diverse perspectives, you can better meet the needs and preferences of your customers.

So, how can you deconstruct social norms in the workplace? Here are a few ideas:

1. Encourage diversity and inclusivity. Hire employees from a variety of backgrounds and encourage them to bring their unique perspectives to the table.
2. Challenge assumptions and biases. Take a critical look at your workplace culture and challenge assumptions and biases that may be holding your business back.
3. Embrace flexibility and adaptability. Don’t be afraid to try new approaches and be willing to adapt as needed to meet the needs of your employees and customers.
4. Promote open communication and collaboration. Encourage employees to share their ideas and perspectives, and foster a culture of open communication and collaboration.
5. Humour. We spend more time at worj than we spend with our loved ones. A light and humor filled atmosphere will go a long way in making sure that the lines of communication remain open.

In conclusion, deconstructing social norms in the workplace can be a powerful way to drive innovation, promote inclusivity, and enhance employee engagement and satisfaction. By challenging traditional assumptions and embracing diversity and flexibility, you can create a more successful and sustainable business that meets the needs of all employees and customers.