Getting the Job Done
When Everyone Else is Socializing

Have you ever felt like you are the only one working while everyone else in the office is busy socializing—including your boss? If so, then chances are that your personal behavior style does not match the workplace culture in which you are employed.

Such disconnects between an established group culture and individual behavior styles can result in a challenging environment in which to work. In order to make the best of a difficult situation and advance your career, you must first understand the culture and then leverage its strengths.

For example, suppose you are a steady, detail- and structure-oriented worker employed in a culture that puts a high emphasis on group activities and social interaction in the workplace. Often referred to as an “Influencing Culture,” it is one that trusts those who are open and expressive and encourages creativity, enthusiasm, optimism, collaboration, and passion. Rulemaking, caution, overanalysis of problems, introversion, and insensitivity are usually not successful tendencies here. Creativity in this style of work environment is fostered through high energy, fun and optimistic surroundings, and a warm and caring environment. Frequent and informal communication is welcome, and usually leads to collective brainstorming. Good work is recognized by this culture, and self-starters are rewarded for their efforts.

You may feel uncomfortable in this environment and find it difficult to do your job. The frequent change in direction and unclear guidelines may bother you if you need clear, set goals. Attention to detail is often avoided, and your coworkers may tend to be overly optimistic when reviewing risks. So much socializing in the workplace leads to a certain amount of pressure to be extroverted and energized, which may not be your natural behavior style. Poor planning habits combined with too many meetings may be perceived by you as a lack of efficiency in work habits.

However, you may be attracted to the fast pace and exciting developments this environment provides. You may feel quite exhilarated by the eagerness to tackle new challenges and the cycle of creativity. This workplace can be fun and interactive for you—every day there is something new. You have made many friends. You’re in an environment where everyone’s natural eagerness drives the organization forward. Partner with those team members who find planning easy.

People who prefer a steadier, more predictable work environment will appreciate the fact that social graces and relationships are valued. Your contribution to the organization is that your steady performance helps everyone function more effectively. You will have to become more assertive when it comes to getting clear direction and defined expectations. The speed of change in this culture may be unsettling. In your natural friendly and thoughtful way, be sure to share your expectations and get your needs met. Remember, this culture does not encourage caution, overanalysis or introversion. Speak up. Tell them what you need to know so that you can be supportive of their success.

You may choose to maintain order in this frantic environment. Your dependability is valued. Sometimes you may be seen as the “task master,” but it is your research, analysis, and the detail-oriented tasks you perform that give this organization structure. Before you begin to feel resentful of the pressure to become more social and energetic, share your needs for privacy and quiet with your team. Your coworkers will be relieved to know that it’s nothing personal.