Some people just won’t follow commands.
They won’t follow directives; they hate being told to what to do.
This is a problem, particularly if you want them to behave differently, if you want that all elusive “cultural change”.
Some cultural changes are harder than others
Imagine the challenges facing Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the man who transformed the Ottoman Empire into the modern, secular Turkey in the early 20th Century.
Rightly or wrongly, one of his many tasks was to persuade women not to wear the burka or veil. He realised that if he simply banned it, he would only create uproar and dissent (as the French authorities have found).
His solution was far subtler than that. He passed a law that permitted women to dress however they wished, unless they were prostitutes, who were compelled to wear the burka.
That did the trick
A simple lesson
If you are trying to change behaviour, it is wise to appeal to people’s self interest.
What is in it for me?
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James,
Great story, simple lesson, excellent advice!
Annette :-)
Hi James,
A subtle approach that works. I like it.
Adrian
Glad you both liked it
Amazing story! If you want people to do as you say, then make your cause their own personal conviction too.
Thank you for your comment Cheyserr, glad you liked the story
The complete antithesis of what happens in most call centers . . . no wonder attrition and employee morale are such big issues.
I couldn’t agree more Dick, there is nothing quite like being told what to do every minute of every day to get your back up.
James