Ever been part of a dysfunctional company? They are like puzzle pieces that don't quite fit, breeding gossip, stifling innovation, and diminishing output quality over time. When faced with such dysfunction, it's easy to point fingers at individuals.

In this episode of the Productivity Smarts Podcast, host Gerald J. Leonard is joined by Joel Dubin, author of “The 7 Habits of Highly Dysfunctional Companies” and a seasoned cybersecurity consultant. Together, they explore the complexities of dysfunctional companies, the impact of detrimental behaviors on productivity, and actionable strategies for employees to navigate such environments.

Joel’s book humorously outlines the common traits observed in dysfunctional companies. The duo discusses how these habits affect employee morale and productivity, highlighting the crucial role of leadership, open communication, and adaptability. Joel shares humorous anecdotes from his career, shedding light on the negative effects of bureaucracy and constant reorganizations.

Both Gerald and Joel provide practical advice for navigating dysfunctional work environments, emphasizing the importance of networking and building emotional connections. This episode offers valuable insights and actionable strategies to boost workplace productivity and morale. For more on navigating dysfunctional work environments and boosting productivity, tune in to this episode.

What We Discuss

• [02:01] Introduction to Joel Dubin

• [04:39] Dealing with dysfunctional companies

• [12:50] Impact of dysfunctional behaviors on productivity

• [16:24] Examples of dysfunctional behaviors

• [18:41] Engagement with frontline workers

• [19:47] The Japanese Assembly Line scenario

• [20:48] Impact of dysfunctional company habits on morale and motivation

• [24:06] The role of leadership in fostering or mitigating dysfunctional habits

• [31:23] Steps to improve productivity and avoid multitasking

• [34:22] Advice for employees in dysfunctional companies

• [38:57] Building relationships and emotional value

Notable Quotes

• [13:58] “You got to have people that know how to be even at high levels of management, know how to be vulnerable. You need to be able to say, ‘I made a mistake. Let's see how we can fix it.’” - Joel Dubin

• [34:22] “Look at your career, not your job. Be loyal to yourself and your career, constantly take any training to improve your skills.”- Joel Dubin

• [36:41] “Always be prepared for change. Don’t be complacent, don’t feel too comfortable, and remember today could be your last day.” - Joel Dubin

Resources

Joel Dubin

• Website - https://www.joeldubin.com/

• X: https://x.com/dubinslanguages/status/1807546992819675314

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeldubin/

• Book: The 7 Habits of Highly Dysfunctional Companies

Productivity Smarts Podcast

• Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com

Gerald J. Leonard

• Website - geraldjleonard.com

• Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com

• Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard

Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds