Dealing with rude behavior at work isn’t just frustrating — it’s a culture killer. If you’re a manager struggling to curb disrespectful behavior, you’re not alone. Post-pandemic shifts have made rudeness more common. Here’s why it’s happening, how it affects your company culture, and what you can do about it.
Why Workplace Rudeness Is Increasing
I never thought rude and disrespectful behavior in the workplace would be tolerated. In the near past, tolerating rude and disrespectful behavior toward the boss and your coworkers wasn’t a thing. Why is it now? I have some ideas about how this evolved:
- Post Covid, the workplace talent pool is much smaller — so managers aren’t quick to reprimand or dismiss people who are essential to the organization’s functioning structure. Consequently, some of your workforce knows they have job security, even with their bratty behaviors.
- Y & Z generation workers who grew up with native computing and internet skills became the de-facto V.P. of technology in their homes. They were rewarded by management (mom and dad) without the dues-paying regimen of following a company hierarchy. It was easy to be arrogant.
- Most organizations are hiring “gig” workers; part-timers who get paid to do essential tasks on the job, but don’t necessarily fall under the same rules of conduct as the salaried team members. Said another way, they are able to get away with being quirky and obstinate.
- Almost daily, younger workers are comfortable “sounding off” on their social media platforms. The more outrageous their opinions, the more followers they can attract. As their fan base grows, so does the unconscious encouragement to let that attitude spill over onto their coworkers and management.
How Rudeness Affects Your Company Culture
Unchecked rudeness doesn’t just irritate your team — it actively sabotages your brand. Toxic behavior:
- Lowers morale
- Increases employee turnover
- Damages client relationships
- Weakens your company’s reputation
Simply put: good people won’t stick around if they feel disrespected. Protecting your culture protects your profits.
Effective Strategies for Managers to Address Rude Behavior
You can’t control how people feel, but you can set expectations for how they act.
- Model Respect: Employees mirror leadership. Show the behavior you want to see.
- Address Issues Immediately: Small slights grow into major conflicts if ignored.
- Offer Clear Communication Guidelines: Teach your team what respectful communication looks like in your environment.
- Train for Emotional Intelligence: Provide resources and workshops to boost self-awareness and empathy.
Setting Clear Boundaries: Compliance or Goodbye
It’s simple: You can’t allow jerks to thrive.
After coaching and clear warnings, if someone still behaves rudely, you must be ready to part ways. Loyalty to the broader team means removing toxic influences — even if they’re top performers. “Compliance or Goodbye” isn’t harsh — it’s leadership with backbone. I am not suggesting you build a command-and-control environment. But rather, design your organization as a place where coworkers feel collaborative and safe from emotionally disturbing outbursts. Drama created by rude people needs to be put on notice.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Team, Protect Your Brand
Leaders set the tone. By handling rude behavior swiftly and consistently, you protect your culture, your people, and your business future.
Need help building a resilient, respectful workplace culture?
Book Ross Shafer to energize your next leadership event or corporate meeting.