In today’s competitive business environment, the concept of citizenship in the workplace has become increasingly important. This applies to medicine as well, especially in large cities where numerous health systems are competing for market penetration, desirable payer mix & favorable rankings by U.S. News & World Report, Leapfrog, Healthgrades and others.
However, there is often a disconnect between employees’ understanding of citizenship in the workplace and what senior leadership or management feel exhibits a good citizen of the organization.
So, what exactly is citizenship in the workplace?
An employee often believes that showing up on time and completing their assigned tasks is enough to be considered a good citizen.
However, to employers it refers to employees going above and beyond their job responsibilities to contribute positively to the overall success of the organization. This disconnect can lead to confusion, conflict and ultimately affect the overall morale and productivity within the workplace.
Citizenship in the workplace are the behaviors, attitudes and actions of members of the organization that aren’t simply in the job description. It encompasses elements such as helping others, displaying a positive attitude, being proactive and contributing to the overall success of the organization.
One of the key aspects of citizenship in the workplace is the willingness to partner with others. This could involve assisting a colleague with a project, sharing knowledge and expertise or simply offering to listen. By being a teammate and supporting colleagues, you not only build strong relationships but also contribute to a positive and collaborative work environment.
Another important aspect of citizenship in the workplace is displaying a positive attitude. Positivity can ‘go viral’ and can help uplift the spirits of those around you. By approaching your work with enthusiasm and optimism, you inspire others to do the same.
Being proactive is also a crucial component of citizenship in the workplace. This means taking initiative, being available even after business hours, looking for opportunities to improve processes and being proactive in finding solutions to problems as opposed to simply pointing out problems. By being proactive, you demonstrate your commitment to the organization.
Contributing to the overall organizational success is the most critical aspect of citizenship in the workplace. This could involve going above and beyond your job responsibilities, taking on additional tasks, or actively participating in initiatives that benefit the company as a whole. By contributing to the organization’s success, you not only demonstrate your dedication but also help create a culture of excellence and achievement.
In conclusion, citizenship in the workplace is a vital aspect of organizational success. By exhibiting behaviors such as helping others, displaying a positive attitude, being proactive and contributing to the overall success of the organization, employees can not only enhance their own performance but also contribute to a positive and thriving work environment. It is essential for both employees and management to have a shared understanding of what constitutes good citizenship in the workplace in order to foster a culture of collaboration, productivity and success.
