Workplace Cliques and Their Role in Office Culture

Workplace psychology is the study of human behavior in professional settings and how it influences work dynamics. It is also known by the terms occupational psychology or organisational psychology. When explored further, workplace mannerisms, behaviors, and work principles form the foundation for problem-solving and play a crucial role in shaping the success of a business or organization. The gist says it is concerned with changing, shaping and moulding the work system of a community in a befitting manner benefiting the whole system.

Workplace cliques are a part of it. They are small, tight-knit groups formed within the office environment among employees who interact closely, often forming social bonds based on personal interests and goals. Understanding the norms of workplace cliques in office culture is crucial for maintaining a healthy and inclusive workplace for all. 

Understanding the psychology of the workplace is imperative for an employee as it can boost their motivation, engagement and productivity. The workplace is just more than a room, a physical space taken by workers where they complete their respective tasks; it is quite complex and much more than that. The workplace is more determined by human nature, emotions, as well as the interactions they seek with each other.

The Psychology behind Workplace Cliques 

Work cliques can sometimes be a lot more problematic than it seems. It can strip up issues within the group. These small groups are formed for several reasons. Employees naturally seek connection, security and a sense of belongingness. The common factors fuel it too. 

• Shared interests or backgrounds – people with similar interests and hobbies tend to get drawn towards each other fast as compared to others. The common ground here plays a role in itself. 
• Job roles, as well as the type of department all are in – people working in the same department play similar roles and build up a team in itself passionate towards the same projects.
• Seniority and influence – long-time employees may form cliques based on tenure and experience. 
• Office politics, as well as social status too, plays a role in some sectors. 

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The Positive Aspects of Workplace Cliques

Everyone can’t have close relations with everyone. So, workplace cliques are formed ultimately by a bunch of employees sharing the same ideas. While most of the time, workplace cliques are associated with exclusivity and bullying, they can be beneficial to the system too. Promoting positive interactions.  

1. Fostering a sense of Oneness – for many the region and unfamiliar employees, the workplace can feel isolating. Cliques can be helpful in providing a sense of belonging. Keeping their mind off irrational thoughts and negativity. 
2. Professional as well as personal support – Strong relations with an employee can enhance teamwork and cooperation only. Whereas not only professionally but could be beneficial on a personal level.
3. Helps in Gaining more Knowledge 
4. Enhances the workplace morale by creating a safe and friendly space for work.
5. Encourages positive teamwork and good collaborations 

The Negatives effects: The Otherside Workplace Cliques 

Even though it is supposed to be beneficial at some points and by some people, there are certain amounts of negative effects, too.

1. Feeling of Alienation 
2. Biased behaviour and office politics 
3. Toxicity eventually results in bullying and extreme gossip. 
4. Decreases the rate of productivity and creates a negative space for work 
5. Tightly knitted workplace cliques could resist in change and are more conservative about the methods. 
6. Can cause a turnover in employee number 

How to Manage Workplace Cliques Effectively as Well and Efficiently

Positive relationships within workplace cliques can boost morale and productivity, making it easier to perform daily tasks efficiently. However, when these close-knit groups become too exclusive, they can negatively impact office culture and team cohesion. Maintaining a healthy workplace environment requires fostering inclusive relationships and addressing cliques effectively to minimize any negative effects.

Promote inclusivity and diversity 

 Encourage employees to understand the traits of the work environment and to be more acceptable these could be done by :

1. Setting up cross-departmental projects 
2. Rotating the team members in group 
3. Hosting events and mixing different teams  
4. Encourage open and effective communication with all 
5. Set clear workplace rules and regulations 

Implementing policies is necessary to promote fairness and keep unfair and partial means at bay. 

There should be : 

1. Anti-discrimination and anti-bullying policies
2. Transparency 
3. Regular employee feedback 
4. Encourage more team-building activities 

Facilitating an environment beyond established cliques can help build connections. Considering certain things such as :

1. Inter-functional sessions  
2. Volunteering initiatives
3. Icebreaker activities for Roadies 
4. A systemic approach to toxic cliques proactively 

If cliques are creating a negative space and deteriorating the environment, it is important to address the issues and manage them effectively. 

1. Encouraging a better environment with inclusivity 
2. Monitoring the office culture and making necessary adjustments 
3. Having private discussions with each and every member of the cliques. 

While workplace cliques may seem harmless, they can significantly impact an individual’s work performance and mental well-being. Their subtle effects on team dynamics and workplace culture should not be overlooked. It is crucial for leaders and HR professionals to foster an inclusive and supportive environment where every employee feels valued. Addressing minor issues early can prevent larger problems, ensuring that workplace cliques do not lead to exclusion or diminish employees’ sense of belonging.

FAQs

1. What are the Signs of Cliques forming at Work?

Cliques often manifest as groups of employees who consistently exclude others, communicate primarily among themselves, and may resist collaborating with the wider team. Other signs include a drop in team morale, increased gossip, and noticeable divisions within the workplace.

2. How can Cliques impact Workplace Culture?

Cliques can create a toxic work environment, leading to feelings of isolation among non-members. This division can reduce overall team collaboration, lower productivity, and increase turnover rates as employees may feel unwelcome or undervalued.

3. Are cliques always Negative in the Workplace?

While cliques often have negative connotations, small groups can sometimes form naturally based on shared interests. However, when these groups become exclusionary or start affecting work dynamics, they become problematic.