Peer Pressure in the Workplace

Every individual has experienced peer pressure. It is but normal to undergo this stage as one of the factors that we need to survive and to get along with the society. From early childhood until we come into the school, there is a big deal of pressure for all of us to belong.

However, while we think that we have outgrown peer pressure when we have already graduated from college; adults usually succumb to peer pressure in a more complicated manner, especially those who are younger and have weaker personality than others. It is the responsibility of strong leaders to ensure that the peer pressure within their organization is carefully managed to maintain a positive and productive work environment.

Peer pressure plays a very important role in how we work and do things. Typically, one could only get influenced by others positively or negatively by factors like growth (promotion of peers), compensation (salary differentiation with peers), opportunities (challenging assignment/type of work/on site opportunity), capability, insecurities at the workplace, etc.

While peer pressure may have carried a negative connotation in high school, it can actually motivate people to perform in the workplace. When colleagues know their performance and contributions affect someone else in the company, they're more likely to feel a need to step up efforts so they don't let co-workers down. Peer pressure that arises out of a sense of self worth and need to improve, can create a fruitful impact. A healthy competitive work environment can help build aspirations. In fact, if taken in the right spirit, peer pressure can help individuals strive towards excellence at work.

Axis Capital Group, a recruitment agency capitalizing in human resource appreciates and encourages healthy peer pressure in the workplace. We know one company in Jakarta, Indonesia who even held monthly peer-pressure reviews and assessment to serve as motivation to create and enhance work culture. For example, if colleagues have the opportunity to rate one another on teamwork, collaboration and group efforts, employees know their evaluation is tied to the perception of their co-workers. Workers who were evaluated as irresponsible may be aware of his actions and through peer pressure, be able to overcome the attitude while those who are dedicated on the job are respected and looked up to to lead the team.

However, though, there are some complaints in peer pressure as well. Giving in to peer-pressure at work is the same as allowing others to do the thinking for you. The moment you step back to think about the actions that you’re going to make because of peer influences, is the moment that you will have the courage to stand up to them. Using your own thinking ability and knowledge and not relying on your co-workers foolish reasoning’s is the best way to overcome what it is you are feeling pressured to do.