As we discussed last month (Six Steps to Limit Negativity), when morale is low at your school, you obviously need to take steps to counteract the tendency towards disengagement and reduced productivity.

However, Ashley Jordan (University of Arizona psychology professor) recommends that when you are faced with this situation, first pause and reflect to better understand the dynamics at play. Otherwise you may be tempted to implement hasty solutions that create even more problems down the road.

In this article, she reminds us that workplace morale problems rarely have quick fixes; strong leaders resist rushing to solutions; and most importantly, employees closest to the work often have the clearest insight into needed change. In her words, “By proactively including diverse viewpoints, encouraging weigh-in from everyone, and thinking critically about innovative, outside-the-box solutions, leaders give themselves the best shot at success.”