How managers handle abrasive leaders without harming teams
Abrasive leaders can destroy team morale. Learn how managers can address abrasive behaviour and build a healthier workplace culture in this episode.
How can a manager address abrasive leadership to protect team culture?
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What this episode covers
If you struggle with a high performer who treats colleagues poorly, this episode offers practical insights into managing abrasive leadership. Jimmy Burroughes talks with workplace conflict expert Bonnie Artman Fox about recognising abrasive behaviour versus bullying, the hidden costs to organisational culture, and how therapy and coaching can aid improvement. They discuss strategies for initiating difficult conversations and the importance of self-awareness in leadership. This episode equips leaders with tools to address abrasive behaviours constructively, helping to improve team cohesion and performance.
Who this is for: General managers and senior operators facing challenges with high-performing team members who exhibit abrasive or difficult behaviour.
Key takeaways
- Abrasive leaders differ from bullies by often lacking self-awareness about their negative impact on others.
- Addressing abrasive behaviour in high performers requires careful conversations balancing risks and potential improvements.
- Coaching abrasive leaders can lead to positive changes in team dynamics and organisational culture.
- Leaders must actively seek feedback to recognise and manage their own abrasive tendencies.
- Understanding the costs of abrasive leadership helps justify investing in conflict resolution and leadership development.
Abrasive leadership is a hidden threat that can erode your team culture and performance. In this episode of The High Performance Leader, you will uncover the true cost of keeping an abrasive leader and learn practical steps managers can take to address damaging behaviours before they undermine your organisation. Discover the difference between abrasive leaders and bullies, and how greater self awareness can transform your leadership approach.
What you will learn
- Identify the warning signs of abrasive leaders within your team
- Understand the difference between abrasive leadership and bullying
- Implement effective strategies for addressing workplace conflict
- Gain tools to improve self awareness and feedback in your leadership style
This episode features Bonnie Artman Fox, a workplace conflict expert who supports managers in transforming team dynamics.
Episode highlights
- (1:33) Bonnie's backstory and journey to becoming an accredited boss whisperer
- (4:28) Differentiating between abrasive leaders and bullies
- (7:04) The costs of having abrasive leaders in an organisation
- (10:28) Risks and benefits of starting a conversation with an abrasive leader
- (16:43) Positive outcomes and benefits of coaching abrasive leaders
- (20:12) Identifying abrasive tendencies in oneself as a leader
- (22:52) Seeking feedback and the importance of self awareness
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Get the Quick-Win PackQuestions managers ask about this episode
How can I tell if a high performer is just abrasive or actually a bully?
Abrasive leaders often lack self-awareness and their behaviour is not intentionally malicious, whereas bullies deliberately seek to harm or dominate others. Recognising this difference helps tailor your approach to managing their conduct effectively.
What are the risks of confronting an abrasive leader about their behaviour?
Starting a conversation with an abrasive leader can be risky as it may provoke defensiveness or conflict. However, approaching the issue thoughtfully can lead to positive outcomes, including improved behaviour and team morale.
Can coaching help high performers with abrasive behaviour change their leadership style?
Yes, coaching abrasive leaders has shown to produce positive benefits by increasing their self-awareness and communication skills, which can transform team dynamics and reduce conflict in the workplace.
How can I identify abrasive tendencies in myself as a leader?
Seeking honest feedback from peers and team members is crucial to recognising abrasive behaviours you may exhibit. This self-awareness is the first step towards making conscious communication choices and improving your leadership approach.