Taking your job seriously is one thing, but some people go further. They interfere in situations that do not involve them, negatively going beyond their job description.
Besides, no one wants to share a cubicle with a new employee like Dwight Schrute from "The Office," whose unique traits as a beet-farming volunteer sheriff's deputy/paper salesman often lead to awkward situations with coworkers.
What are Workplace Vigilantes?
Katy DeCelles, a professor of organizational behavior at the University of Toronto and co-author of the paper "Vigilantes at Work: Examining the Frequency of Dark Knight Employees," spoke with CNBC Make It and shared that workplace vigilante sees themselves as the office's Dark Knight because they think their morals are better than yours, often sticking to "this is how it's always been done" or "that's what it says in the employee handbook."
More often than not, people understand that this behavior is more about the person doing it than about the person being accused. After a while, you learn to identify who tends to act like "Dwight" and take their claims less seriously.
Three Signs That You Might be Overstepping at Work
1. Paying Close Attention to what Coworkers are Doing
Workplace vigilantes frequently check on a coworker's progress or how much time they spend in and out of the office. According to DeCelles, signs of being a workplace vigilante include being overly watchful of others and expecting them to make mistakes or act unethically, as well as the consequences resulting from these shortcomings.
2. Becoming Upset when a Coworker Breaks a Rule
Decelles explains that people not only notice their coworkers' actions but also find that it affects their mood, highlighting that if management is not bothered, vigilantes might find this increasingly frustrating and angering.
3. Taking Responsibility for Reprimanding a Coworker
According to DeCelles, a vigilante is known for their punishment actions, taking matters into their own hands, or reporting to HR if things are not addressed accordingly.
What is the Best Thing to Do Instead?
Try stepping back and concentrating on your work if you see yourself doing any of these things. DeCelles suggests redirecting some energy toward solving problems that peers or coworkers would appreciate.
How Employers Can Deal with Workplace Vigilantes?
- Provide Clear Guidelines: Ensure employees understand company guidelines and policies to minimize vigilant behavior.
- Encourage Open Communication: Foster an environment where employees can discuss concerns or issues they observe rather than taking matters into their own hands.
- Offer Conflict Resolution Training: Provide conflict resolution and effective communication training to help employees constructively address issues and avoid confrontational behavior.
- Address Underlying Issues: Investigate any issues that may be contributing to vigilant behavior to help mitigate the need for vigilante actions.
- Provide Support: Offer support and guidance to employees struggling with their workload or feeling overwhelmed, such as time management training or workload assistance to help alleviate stress and reduce the likelihood of vigilant behavior.
- Lead by Example: Set a positive example as a manager or leader by addressing issues promptly and professionally. Demonstrate respectful and constructive behavior to encourage the same from employees.
