TED Business The problem with being "too nice" at work | Tessa West
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Jul 15, 2024 Social psychologist Tessa West discusses the downsides of being 'too nice' at work and the importance of clear, consistent feedback. Modupe provides tips on sharing constructive criticism for effective communication in the workplace.
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Anxious Niceness
- In uncomfortable situations, people often mask anxiety with excessive niceness and generic pleasantries.
- This "anxious niceness" is a common response to social awkwardness, rather than genuine kindness.
Negotiation Compliments
- In a negotiation study, "winners" often complimented "losers" excessively, even on losing strategies.
- This demonstrates how anxious niceness can manifest in professional settings, masking true feedback.
Minority Impact
- Anxious niceness is often directed toward minority groups, stemming from a fear of appearing prejudiced.
- This behavior can inadvertently perpetuate stress and negatively impact the recipient's well-being.