Offers information the impact of constant demands on office
workers. Perception of attitude of workers at the beginning of the week;
Comments from Debbie Moskowitz, a psychologist at McGill University in
Montreal; Information on dominant behavior; Why Thursdays and Fridays
find workers most open to negotiation and compromise.
By
Marcus Wynne, published on September 01, 1998
The constant demands of life in the office can make one day seem
much likethe next. In fact, though, there's a rhythm to the work
week--one that you can use to your advantage.
At the beginning of the week, workers are apt to be very demanding
and disagreeable, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing. Surliness can
actually increase productivity instead of creating conflict, says Debbie
Moskowitz, Ph.D., a psychologist at McGill University in Montreal.
"Dominant behaviors are frequently about getting things done--setting
goals, organizing work, assigning responsibilities," she explains. This
sort of task-setting peaks on Tuesday, and unpleasantness peaks a day
later.
That's contrary to expectations. "People tend to think that they
get more disagreeable during the course of the week," observes Moskowitz.
"In fact, people start out that way and get more agreeable later in the
week." As hard-line behavior disappears, we become more flexible and
accommodating. Thursdays and Fridays find us most open to negotiation and
compromise because we want to finish our work before the week is
out.
The conciliatory demeanor at week's end seems to be preparation for
Saturday and Sunday, when getting along with family and friends assumes
the greatest importance. Come Monday, the good cheer is gone and the
cycle starts over again.--Marcus Wynne
MONDAY: Organize, plan, and delegate
TUESDAY: Follow your boss's directions
WEDNESDAY: Avoid conflict with co-workers
THURSDAY: Ask for a favor or a raise
FRIDAY: Ask a colleague to do things your way
ILLUSTRATION
