Passive-aggressive behavior creates frustration, stress, and anxiety on teams, resulting in lost productivity that costs companies dearly. That’s why managers need to foster open conflict by surfacing issues that would otherwise go underground. Help team members openly disagree by discussing the dynamic you want to establish. Focus on the benefits of addressing conflict directly and set some ground rules. You can say, “I’m concerned that we aren’t using our meetings effectively to air all of our opinions.” Or “I want everyone to add value before decisions are made, not after.” Don’t be afraid to be direct about counterproductive behavior. For example, say, “Two or three people come to my office after each meeting to discuss something that I expected to be raised in the meeting.” By calmly and directly highlighting instances of passive-aggressive behavior, you will help make direct communication feel more comfortable.
Adapted from "Reduce Passive-Aggressive Behavior on Your Team," by Liane Davey
