While modern films are a true passion of mine, I seldom opt to quote them unless absolutely fitting. In examining pettiness through the lens of outcomes, Alex Alonso has made a Gump-ian truth more evident than ever before. Like Forrest’s mother, who often said, “Stupid is as stupid does,” we have come to learn—petty is as petty does. As trivial as it may seem, this inalienable fact rings through each example shared in The Price of Pettiness.
Detailing the mundane pettiness of some while outlining the vicious pettiness of others is no easy task. Yet, it becomes clear how this work contributes to our own self-awareness as we see a little bit of ourselves in every example. With each stroke we understand the pervasiveness of counterproductive workplace behaviors and build upon their requisite impact as weapons of culture erosion. The importance of culture erosion cannot be understated, as it is the quintessential challenge facing organizations today. Whether facing issues with inclusion or defining core values for success, all workplaces seek to avoid becoming grist in the mill that is culture erosion.
SHRM has set forth its objective as elevating the practice of HR to build better workplaces for a better world. To build a world of work that works for all, we must face challenges to our values head on and meet them with the grace and intellect all too often devoid from most interactions. Dr. Alonso gives us the head start needed to staunch culture erosion and inspires us to work together to stomp it out for good.