14 Win Over Cynics

Ignore cynics at your own peril.

Left unchecked, cynics can drain an organization of its enthusiasm and commitment to excellence. They think they already have all the answers, so they don’t listen to reason. Laughing off their sarcastic cracks isn’t a long-term solution, because they’ll perceive your meek response as a green light to intensify their antics.

One of your toughest tasks as a manager is to shut down cynics and prevent them from infecting morale. It requires constant vigilance.

When employees make caustic comments, challenge them to take a point of view and support it. Don’t accept cynical asides if you privately agree or if you’re relieved the jab isn’t directed at you. Respond to all such commentary consistently. ...

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