The story of Kitty Genovese is a tragic example of how the bystander effect can have devastating consequences.
While this phenomenon has been studied in relation to emergency situations, it also has implications for virtual teams in the workplace.
When responsibility is diffused among a group, it can create a situation where everyone assumes someone else will take care of a task, resulting in nothing being done at all. To avoid this, it’s crucial to assign responsibility to specific individuals. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to do this effectively with three tips.
Tip 1: Use Direct Language
One common mistake managers make is using indirect language when assigning tasks. For example, saying, “I think we should work on this task,” can lead to confusion about who is actually responsible for getting it done. To avoid this, use direct language that leaves no room for ambiguity. Instead of “we,” use the person’s name and clearly state what needs to be done. For example, “David, I need you to work on this task.”
Tip 2: Ask for Volunteers
When possible, asking for volunteers to take on a task can be a useful strategy. When someone volunteers, they are more likely to feel committed to completing the task, as they have made a personal commitment to it. Additionally, giving team members a choice in what they work on can lead to higher levels of job satisfaction and productivity. However, if no one volunteers, or the situation doesn’t allow for it, it’s important to still assign responsibility to someone.
Tip 3: Assign to Individuals
Assigning tasks to a group of people can create a diffusion of responsibility, even in small groups. To avoid this, assign primary responsibility to a specific individual and secondary responsibility to others. For example, instead of saying, “Karen, Jessica, and Steve will be responsible for completing this task,” say, “Karen will be responsible for completing this task, and both Jessica and Steve will help her out.”
Conclusion
The bystander effect can be a real problem in virtual teams, where there is a lack of face-to-face interaction. To avoid this, it’s essential to assign responsibility to specific individuals. Use direct language, ask for volunteers when possible, and assign tasks to individuals rather than groups. By following these tips, you can ensure that tasks are completed effectively and efficiently, and that everyone on the team knows exactly what their responsibilities are.
If you’d like to learn more, check out “Influencing Virtual Teams”
