Competition within a workplace often derives mixed emotions from business executives and managers. Those in favor of competition in workplaces claim that it increases efficiency and makes it easier to set targets, but those against the notion disagree entirely.
The opinion for and against competition and rivalry depends largely on the management style that the manager belongs to. Managers who believe in micromanagement believe that competitive rivalry can lead to disintegration of common goals. These managers believe that every employee is different and not everyone is meant to thrive under a competitive environment.
On the contrary, the opposing school of thought takes a more hard-line approach, by encouraging workplace rivalry and competition. According to them, in a world where the fit are meant to survive the uncompetitive have to raise their game.
This conflicting approach has always interested psychologist and sociologist. While there are no conclusive winner in the debate these compelling pros and cons do provide us with insight from either end of the spectrum.
Advantages of Workplace Rivalry
- Competition Increases Productivity
Competition can help light a fire in the workplace- a fire and passion that was missing before. Some companies deliberately use the policy of divide and rule to promote competitiveness in the workplace. The idea of comparison with your peers and the embarrassment that follows is a good enough motivator for individuals to work harder.
- Increase in Efficiency
In an effort to be more competitive, employees will look for solutions that are innovative and efficient. The strong need to stand out can cause employees to look for creative methods to enhance production. The enhanced productivity and efficiency is bound to have an effect on the revenue as it can see an upward surge.
Disadvantages
- Cooperation and Respect May Decline in the Workplace
The tactics may yield great results in the short run, but it is essential to consider the far reaching negative results of promoting competition. Employees start considering their colleagues as their competitors, and this animosity results in lack of cooperation in the workplace. Rather than creating a pack of wolves ready to take on the jungle, you end up creating lone wolves waiting for a chance to devour each other.
- Competition can Lead to Stress
Another disadvantage of competition is that it can lead to stress. When you work in an environment that it does not trust each other you carry the extra burden of secrecy on your shoulders. Sometimes employees don’t want their colleagues to know what they are working on. The constant scrutiny and the need for performance can lead to depression and anxiety in the employees. The ruthless nature of the workplace affects your personal life as your work-life balance is disrupted by the competition.
While promoting competitive rivalry may have its benefits, it does not guarantee successful management of employees either. Before choosing the route you want to take for your employees, it is imperative to take into consideration the kind of workplace environment you have developed over the years.
