The benefits and pitfalls of trash-talking
November 8, 2017
By Brian Maynor
What does trash-talking really do?
If you’ve ever played or attended a sporting event, then there’s no doubt you’ve heard or engaged in trash-talking, but the practice of boasting about the home team and insulting competitors isn’t limited to sporting events.
Trash-talking is very common and pervasive in the business arena, especially when there is an air of competition or brand rivalry. Think about all of the commercials that are basically trash-talk personified.
Recently two professors, Jeremy Yip of Georgetown and Maurice Schweitzer of the University of Pennsylvania, recently conducted a survey focused on this ‘competitive communication’ and its impact on both sides. Here’s a breakdown of what they found:
1. Trash-talking increases the psychological stakes. There is a difference between competitors and rivals, and that is a personal investment. When we are pitted against a rival, we tend to be more productive and motivated at winning. This is especially true for the target of trash-talking.
2. Trash-talking can promote unethical behavior. When faced with a trash-talking opponent, the tendency to cheat, cut corners or take other questionable actions are higher than it is with a mere competitor. Obtaining a victory becomes so much the focus that standards and safety can be compromised.
3. Trash-talking inhibits creativity. While targets of trash-talking may be more motivated, that does not necessarily translate to being more creative. The fact is trash-talking is distracting, and that distraction derails our ability to think creatively or accomplish creative tasks.
4. The effects don’t translate across teams. While trash-talking boosts productivity and motivation for opponents, it has the opposite effect on team members. In fact, trash-talking your team will make them perform worse and could lead them to retaliate by sabotaging their performance.
My take-away from this survey is that trash-talking is a risky endeavor. The double-edged sword could distract your competition or it could motivate them to perform better. So before you engage in or foster trash-talking in your office, understand the potential consequences.
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I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
