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Issues & Answers

Workplace incivility: Dealing with "desk rage" (May 29, 2001)

Issue:> While having an employee erupt in an explosion of anger has never been unheard of in your workplace, lately you've had more and more incidents of insult trading, fight picking and rudeness between employees. You heard a colleague refer to this same stress-related behavior as "desk rage." Should you ignore the behavior or is there something you can do about it?

Answer: According to Envisionworks, a Chicago-area based consulting firm specializing in corporate behavior, ignoring bad workplace behavior can be a costly mistake. The negative effects of workplace incivility include:

Employee-generated lawsuits;
Productivity losses as the victims waste work time trying to avoid the instigators or worrying about an incident or future incidents
Declining commitment to the organization;
Decreased effort at work;
Increased tardiness and absenteeism;
Damage to equipment and property during outbursts;
Physical violence;
Termination of employment to avoid instigators;
Poor customer service; and
Low morale.

Employers can reduce liability risks by identifying and controlling workplace incivility before it gets out of control. Have a civility in the workplace policy that requires the exercise of self-control at work and professionalism in dealing with coworkers. Make sure employees are aware of any anti-stress programs you have—walking paths, exercise rooms and anger management classes are examples of programs that may help relieve stress. Provide a private area that employees may use for a "time out" when needed. Make sure that everyone is aware of the services offered by your EAP and how to reach them.

Keep in mind that ignorance is not bliss where desk rage is concerned and have a good plan for dealing with it.