You have surely come across zombie employees. Unfortunately, they are very common when a team has a leader who does not know how to manage the efforts of subordinates.
Zombie employees is a colloquial term used to describe employees who are in a state of demotivation, apathy and lack of commitment to their work.
The Office Vibe site popularized the term “The Working Dead” (referring to the popular AMC show). It serves to describe those employees who tend to perform their tasks mechanically and without enthusiasm, without showing interest in their work. They are called “zombies” because their behavior may seem similar to the stereotype of zombies. no dead people who are in a state of lethargy.
How do bosses create zombie employees?
Zombie employees are usually not created intentionally, but can arise due to various management practices and unsatisfactory working conditions. Here are some ways bosses can unintentionally contribute to the creation of unmotivated and disengaged employees:
Lack of communication
Bosses who don’t communicate regularly with their employees or don’t listen to their concerns can make employees feel ignored and undervalued.
Lack of recognition and rewards
If employees’ achievements and good performance are not recognized or rewarded, they may feel that their work has no value.
Work overload
Demanding too much work without providing adequate resources or support can lead to burnout. This employee burnout decreases their commitment.
toxic work environment
Bosses who allow or engage in toxic behavior, such as workplace bullying or discrimination, can make employees feel uncomfortable. Many can even apply the quiet quitting.
Lack of professional development
Failing to provide development, training or promotion opportunities can leave employees feeling like they are stuck in their roles and have no prospects for growth.
Micromanagement
Bosses who excessively control their employees’ work, without allowing them to make decisions or have autonomy, can make them feel devalued and disempowered.
Lack of clarity in expectations
If expectations and goals are not clearly communicated, employees can feel lost and demotivated by not knowing what is expected of them.
Lack of emotional support
Ignoring employees’ emotional needs and well-being can leave them feeling neglected during times of stress or personal difficulty.
Not addressing the conflict
Ignoring or failing to adequately address team conflict can create a tense and demotivating work environment.
Lack of alignment with company values
If employees feel that the company does not adhere to their own values or ethics, they may lose trust in management and their commitment may decrease.
Not promoting a work-life balance
Not allowing employees to have a healthy work-life balance can lead to burnout and demotivation.
Lack of recognition of individual contribution
Failing to recognize each employee’s unique contribution can leave them feeling invisible and unappreciated.
Avoid creating your Working Dead
To avoid creating zombie employees, it is essential that leaders are aware of these practices and work to create a positive, motivating and supportive work environment. This involves listening to employees, providing opportunities for growth and development, and promoting a culture that values each team member.
It is important for employers and leaders to be on the lookout for signs of zombie employees and take steps to address the underlying causes of their demotivation. This may include implementing effective management practices, promoting a positive work environment, and addressing employee needs and concerns to help them regain their commitment and enthusiasm at work.
Editorial Team The editorial team of EMPRENDEDOR.com, which for more than 27 years has worked to promote entrepreneurship.