Idea in Brief
The Problem
Too many organizations are marked by cynicism—a belief that others are selfish, greedy, and dishonest—which predicts a slew of negative outcomes at work, including poor performance, turnover, cheating, and stifled innovation.
Why It Happens
Our natural pull toward negativity and the notion that cynics are smarter than noncynics allow cynicism to self-perpetuate. Organizational policies and practices can further reinforce a culture of mistrust.
How to Fix It
You can reduce cynicism in your organization by developing policies and processes that redirect the organizational culture toward collaboration and by making sure that all leaders—not just those at the top—model trusting behaviors and combat cynicism in their interactions.