When a business has employees with bad attitudes, it’s no fun for anyone. If leadership ignores the problem, the negativity spreads, and productivity, morale, and customer service suffer.
So how does this poisonous mindset creep into a business?
In our experience, most owners and employees do care about their work. In fact, those who seem disengaged often started out as some of the most passionate and dedicated. Over time, repeated frustrations, ignored ideas, or a lack of recognition can drain that energy until they simply give up trying.
Once a “bad attitude” takes root, it can spread quickly. The old saying, “one bad apple can spoil the bunch,” holds true in business.
But here’s the good news: this isn’t a permanent condition. Attitude problems can be reversed, and often, the key lies in improving communication.
When people feel heard, respected, and included, they’re more willing to contribute. Strong communication fosters teamwork, accountability, and trust, and those lead to happier, more productive workplaces.
One of the most remarkable real-world examples comes from the NUMMI plant in California in the 1980s. This facility, once considered “the worst performing in the U.S. auto industry,” was shut down by GM in 1982. When it reopened in 1984 as a joint venture between Toyota and GM, they rehired most of the same unionized workers.
The result? Almost overnight, production quality soared. The secret wasn’t new equipment or a different workforce – it was a shift in culture. Toyota emphasized communication, respect, and teamwork at every level, from top management to the factory floor. That cultural change turned a toxic workplace into a high-performing one.
The takeaway for any business owner or manager?
If you want a better workplace culture, start with communication. Lead by example, make it safe for people to speak up, and show genuine respect for every role in the company. With consistent effort, you can turn disengaged employees into motivated team players and create a workplace where everyone wants to give their best. We’re here if you need support: paul@thebusinesstherapist.com
