Banana grabbing should be encouraged. It positively empowers employees, has been known to increase efficiency and spark innovation. A bit of explanation is in order.
There was a scientific experiment involving monkeys some years ago. Scientists put a monkey in a room with a tall pole. Atop the pole were some bananas. When the monkey was released in the room, it went for the bananas. Scientists sprayed water on the monkey from above, preventing him from getting the bananas. The monkey never tried again.
Then another monkey was added to the room. Likewise, the new monkey went for the bananas only to be pulled down by the first monkey. This scenario continued until the second monkey gave up.
More monkeys were added to the room. At first the same scenario played out, where the new monkeys were pulled down by the resident monkeys. Over time, however, the attempts to get the bananas stopped. This was true even after the scientists slowly replaced all the monkeys with new, and even though only the first monkey was sprayed with water.
This is an illustration of how cultures are created, grow and endure. Just like the monkeys, your employees can create a culture that will discourage reaching beyond the status quo, squelching problem-solving and innovation. It can lead to that chronic condition known as Alwaysdonitthiswayitis.
Set the tone and expectations for behavior in your organization.
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Assess your culture.
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Pinpoint areas that are working against the organization.
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Create an empowering and powerfully positive culture.
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