The No Asshole Rule: Building a Civilized Workplace and Surviving One That Isn't

Robert T Sutton

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The definitive guide to working with -- and surviving -- bullies, creeps, jerks, tyrants, tormentors, despots, backstabbers, egomaniacs, and all the other assholes who do their best to destroy you at work.

"What an asshole!"

How many times have you said that about someone at work? You're not alone! In this groundbreaking book, Stanford University professor Robert I. Sutton builds on his acclaimed Harvard Business Review article to show you the best ways to deal with assholes...and why they can be so destructive to your company. Practical, compassionate, and in places downright funny, this guide offers:

  • Strategies on how to pinpoint and eliminate negative influences for good
  • Illuminating case histories from major organizations
  • A self-diagnostic test and a program to identify and keep your own "inner jerk" from coming out

The No Asshole Rule is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today and Business Week bestseller.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Identifying and Eliminating Toxic Behavior: Sutton emphasizes the importance of identifying and eradicating toxic behavior, particularly by individuals who exhibit disruptive or abusive conduct in the workplace.

  2. Setting Boundaries: Implementing a "No Asshole Rule" involves setting clear boundaries against disrespectful behavior and holding everyone, regardless of position, accountable for maintaining a civil work environment.

  3. Impact of Toxicity: Sutton discusses the detrimental effects toxic individuals have on morale, productivity, and overall workplace culture, highlighting the importance of addressing such behaviors promptly.

  4. Recruitment and Hiring Practices: The book suggests that organizations should be vigilant during the hiring process to avoid recruiting individuals who might disrupt the workplace culture with their toxic behavior.

  5. Leadership's Role: Leaders play a critical role in upholding the "No Asshole Rule" by modeling respectful behavior, enforcing the rule consistently, and promoting a positive work environment.

  6. Encouraging Open Communication: Creating an environment where open communication is encouraged helps address issues related to toxic behavior and provides avenues for constructive feedback.

  7. Cultural Change: Implementing a culture of mutual respect and kindness requires a systematic change within the organization, including policies, training, and a collective commitment to the values of civility.

  8. Balancing Performance and Behavior: Sutton suggests that even high-performing individuals who exhibit toxic behavior should not be tolerated, as their negative impact can outweigh their accomplishments.

  9. Supporting Victims: The book emphasizes the importance of supporting employees who have been affected by toxic behavior and creating a safe space for reporting such incidents without fear of retaliation.

  10. Sustaining a Positive Culture: Continuous reinforcement of the "No Asshole Rule" through ongoing training, feedback mechanisms, and a commitment from leadership is essential to maintaining a positive workplace culture.

Language English
ISBN-10 0446698202
ISBN-13 9780446698207
No of pages 180
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Business Plus
Published Date 01 Sep 2010

About Author

Author : Robert T Sutton

1 Books

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