Modern workplaces are people-oriented and companies invest time and effort in the employees' skills to interact. I worked in different types of organizations before I became an entrepreneur: State system, big or small corporation and small company. From all these experiences, each structure had one or two “misfits”. I’m talking about those colleagues who limit their socialization to others and keep every work-related or private matter to themselves. They very often call in sick and leave their resignation for no good reason. Does that sound familiar to you?
Sitting alone at work is such a negative attitude in life and is of no use to anyone. Stress will accumulate and health problems will not be delayed. I guess this behavior is based on a general lack of trust or fear of being judged by colleagues and superiors. Isolated people feel that any small mistake or step could negatively affect their image or career, leading to embarrassing moments that are difficult to overcome. You may encounter this type of behavior at school, but adults can relate differently to situations and people, and the integration process is smoother and more mature.
Below are 6 causes why some people feel excluded at work:
1. Feeling pressure from the management: Tasks seem impossible or almost impossible to solve, and there are scenarios full of panic and frustration. But it's only in the mind of the one who feels excluded because work is always hard and it's up to everyone to make it easier, more enjoyable or more fun.
2. Isolating themselves: People do not seem to fit into this particular team and company. It's a common feeling, but many can handle it efficiently and take educated steps to adapt. Each person has about 6 months to integrate into a new team and accept the new structure and job requirements.
3. Not knowing anyone: This is the case of a new workplace, where all the faces are new. But isn't that the point of changing jobs? People feel that there are barriers in communicating with new co-workers. To be honest, I have never experienced this situation before, because on the first day of work everybody is nice to the new member of the team.
4. Mental health problems: This is a real issue and companies should work on strategies to integrate people with health problems. Unfortunately, I cannot offer qualified advice in this case.
5. Facing discrimination: All written and unwritten rules and laws are pledging for no discrimination, but unconsciously people are tempted to think with prejudice. It is in human nature to act subjectively. The key to this is that companies also encourage colleagues to understand each other.
I am happy to find out that companies, and especially my customers, are fighting loneliness and isolation in the workplace. Taking the time to talk about interpersonal values helps people build empathy and understand each other.