It’s likely fair to say that we’ve all come across a jerk or two in our work lives.  In a recent survey by Connectria Hosting, 83% of respondents said they’d worked with one or more jerks during the past five years.  Connectria and others have now created “No Jerks Allowed” policies for their workplaces.

The no-jerk movement was created by Rich Waidmann, President and CEO of Connectria Hosting.  He not only created a no-jerk policy at his own company, but has also started a nationwide No Jerks Allowed movement.  “My decision to start this movement stemmed from some pretty horrible, jerky work experiences when I first started my tech career in the 80s.  There were a lot of big egos, and it felt like any time you asked a question it couldn’t be stupider,” he stated.

Waidmann lists six reasons why a no-jerk policy is beneficial to any company:

1.       Improved Ability to Recruit – It’s getting harder and harder to attract good talent and those with key skills are in high demand.  One way to set yourself apart from the rest is to implement a No Jerks Allowed policy.  It’s very attractive to prospective talent.

2.       Improved Retention – Once implemented, a no-jerk policy can help with retention.  However, it’s important to note, that for it to be successful it needs to go beyond implementation and include enforcement.  It’s one thing to say you have a no-jerk rule, but it’s an entirely different thing to enforce it.  Jerk-like behavior must not be tolerated and could potentially result in a dismissal or two.  Employees should be given a fair chance to improve and offered coaching/training, but if no improvement is seen then they must be weeded out.  Waidmann states, “If you decide to adopt this philosophy, you should probably take inventory of your potential trouble spots.  While most people will take to the new policy quickly, there may be a few holdouts who’ll need coaching.  Plan for these upfront, and make sure that you don’t allow exceptions.”  Waidmann states that while in business for nearly 20 years, he has fired very few people for being a jerk, including a verbal bully who was counseled three times before he was finally let go.

3.       Improved Productivity – The Connectria survey revealed that 59% of employees reported that working with jerks created lower workplace morale. 40% reported lower productivity, and 34% said that working with jerks made it hard to get their work done.  A 2012 Career Builder survey revealed that 25% of respondents say one toxic employee can cost a company more than $50,000, while 41% said the number was around $25,000.  The costs are associated with lower productivity and people taking sick leave or even resigning.

4.       Improved Customer Satisfaction – The more jerk-free your company, the less likely it is that a customer will be treated poorly.  Employees who work in a respectful and happy work environment are more likely to be happy, engaged, and value their jobs – all of which will likely be reflected in their interactions with clients.

5.       Improved Brand Equity – Brand plays a large part in both recruiting potential employees and getting new customers.  Connectria clearly broadcasts their no-jerk movement on their website, and Waidmann has received numerous complimentary emails from both prospective employees and customers.  It is engrained in their brand.

6.       Improved Work Environment and Employee Satisfaction – The Connectria survey and others have proven that workplace culture plays a large role in employee satisfaction.  A happier workplace results in happier employees.

If you dare to challenge your workplace with a No Jerks Allowed policy, visit Waidmann’s website www.nojerksallowed.com for some inspiration.  It’s a big step to take, but your employee’s will thank you.

Sources: inc.com, fastcompany.com, bbc.com