Can Christian Career Professionals Thrive in The Workplace Amidst the 'Everybody Is Doing It' Culture?

She is a dedicated Christian working in a bustling corporate environment. Among her peers, cutting corners to meet deadlines is the norm. Despite the pressure to conform, she remains committed to honesty and integrity. One day, a major project was nearing its deadline, and everyone was scrambling to deliver results. Once again her team suggested taking shortcuts to speed up the process, but she refused, citing ethical concerns. Though her decision met with skepticism and resistance, she remained resolute.

As the project unfolded, her adherence to ethical standards became increasingly evident. While her colleagues faced setbacks due to their hasty decisions, her meticulous approach paid off. The project was completed on time, with superior quality and accuracy. Impressed by her integrity and professionalism, her superiors took notice. They recognized her leadership capabilities and promoted her to a higher position within the company.

Social conformity presents a significant challenge, particularly in contemporary workplaces in 2024. Based on my professional experience, departing from conventional norms or not conforming to popular behavior doesn't always yield the expected rewards. Indeed, traversing the "everybody is doing it" mindset within the workplace can pose significant challenges for Christian leaders and career professionals committed to upholding ethical and moral standards.

A wealth of research spanning from as early as 1936 to the present, conducted by esteemed scholars such as Sherif, M., Festinger, L., Cialdini, R. B. (2007), Asch, S. E., and Aronson, E., among others, provides robust evidence supporting the phenomenon of individuals adhering to social norms within group settings. These studies illuminate that individuals not only assess themselves by comparing their beliefs and abilities to those of their peers but also exhibit a propensity to emulate the behaviors of others.

What is the 'everybody is doing it mentality' ?

The "everybody is doing it" mentality describes a phenomenon where individuals justify their actions based on the widespread engagement of others in similar behaviors. It often manifests as peer pressure or social influence, leading individuals to compromise their moral compass or ethical standards under the belief that conformity is the norm.

This mentality infiltrate various spheres of life, including the workplace. For instance, within a professional setting, employees may be tempted to partake in unethical practices like circumventing rules or engaging in misconduct simply because they observe others within the organization doing the same.

The danger of ' everybody is doing it mentality'

The danger of succumbing to the "everybody is doing it" mentality is that it can erode individual integrity and lead to a culture where unethical behavior becomes commonplace. This mindset exerts a powerful pressure to conform, making it difficult for individuals to speak out against wrongdoing or uphold their Christian values.

Numerous biblical verses underscore the significance of resisting the allure of conformity to worldly standards. In Romans 12:2 (NIV), believers are urged not to conform to the patterns of this world but to undergo transformation through the renewal of their minds. Proverbs 4:15 (NIV) cautions against treading the path of evildoers, advising to avoid it altogether.

Furthermore, Ephesians 5:11 emphasizes the imperative to distance ourselves from the fruitless deeds of darkness, instead advocating for their exposure. By adhering to these principles, individuals can discern and align with God's perfect will, as outlined in Romans 12:2.

These verses underscore the importance of personal accountability and the maintenance of a steadfast moral compass, even amid environments where ethical standards are compromised. They inspire believers to lead lives that honor God, even if it necessitates standing apart from the crowd.

How should Christian leaders and career professionals navigate 'everybody is doing it' in the workplace?

Navigating the "everybody is doing it" mentality in the workplace can be challenging for Christian leaders and career professionals who hold themselves to ethical and moral standards. Here are some suggestions for navigating this situation:

• Don't compromise your values: Resist the temptation to engage in unethical behavior, even if it seems socially acceptable.
• Don't rationalize: Avoid rationalizing unethical actions by telling yourself that "everybody is doing it" or that it's necessary for success.
• Don't turn a blind eye: Refrain from ignoring unethical behavior or turning a blind eye to misconduct in the workplace.
• Don't succumb to peer pressure: Resist the pressure to conform to unethical norms or practices simply because others are doing so.
• Don't make excuses: Refrain from making excuses for unethical behavior or justifying it with external factors.
• Don't judge others harshly: While it's important to uphold your own ethical standards, avoid judging others harshly for their mistakes or lapses in judgment.
• Don't give up: Even in the face of challenges or opposition, don't give up on your commitment to integrity and ethical conduct.

What are some key intentional strategies that can help Christian career professionals to uphold ethical standards and remain true to your faith?

Here are some intentional strategies that I employ as a Christian leader that helps me to uphold ethical standards and remain true to my faith.

• Ground Yourself in Scripture: This is key. You must always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for the hope that is in you -1 Pet.3:15. Regularly study and meditate on the teachings of the Bible. Let biblical principles guide your decisions and actions in the workplace.
• Accept and Be Prepared to Stand Alone: Accept that many people do what is popular rather than what is right. Be willing to take a stand for what is right, even if it means facing opposition or criticism. Refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God's word; but by the open statement of the truth commend yourself to everyone's conscience in the sight of God - 2 Cor. 4: 2-4.
• Establish and Stick to Your Values: ' Do not swerve to the right or to the left' Prov. 4:26. Define your personal and professional values based on biblical principles highlighting your non negotiables. Communicate these values clearly, gently and respectfully to your team and colleagues to set clear expectations for behavior. Stay true to your beliefs, even if it means going against the grain. Lead by Example: Demonstrate integrity, honesty, and ethical behavior in all aspects of your work. Your actions will set the tone for others and inspire them to follow suit.
• Pray for Guidance: We are encouraged that if 'we lack wisdom, let him ask of God'- James 1: 5. Seek wisdom and guidance through prayer. Trust in God to lead you through challenges and provide discernment in making ethical decisions. Pray for your team members to remain true and ethical.
• Lead By Example: ' Act like men , be strong' - 1 Cor. 16:13. Rely on God's strength and power. As a Christian leader, your actions speak louder than words. Lead by example and demonstrate integrity, honesty, and ethical behavior in all your dealings. Continuously reflect on your actions and decisions. Learn from both successes and failures, and use them as opportunities for growth and strengthening your faith.
• Provide Ethical Training, Guidance and Support: 'Be watchful, stay alert and vigilant' - 1 Cor. 16:13. Offer training sessions or workshops on ethics and integrity in the workplace. Equip employees with the knowledge and skills to make ethical decisions in challenging situations. Offer guidance and support to employees who may be struggling with ethical decisions. Help them understand the importance of making ethical choices, even when it's difficult.
• Foster Open Communication: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing ethical concerns or dilemmas. Encourage open dialogue and provide a platform for addressing issues as they arise.
• Seek Support: ' Ponder the path of your feet, then all your ways will be sure' - Prov. 4:26. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals and trusted mentors who share your values and beliefs. Seek support from mentors, colleagues, or fellow Christians who can provide encouragement and guidance and who can support you whilst holding you accountable to your values in difficult situations..
• Set Boundaries: ' Hold fast to the truth of the gospel. 1 Cor. 16;13. Clearly define boundaries between acceptable and unacceptable behavior. Empower employees to speak up if they witness misconduct and provide channels for reporting unethical behavior

Ultimately, navigating the "everybody is doing it" mentality requires a steadfast commitment to upholding your Christian values and principles, even in the face of adversity. By leading with integrity and setting a positive example, you can make a meaningful impact in the workplace and uphold your faith.

'To thine own self be true. Thou canst not then be false to any man'.

I am Dr. Marcia -A Leader Like You , Author, Motivational Speaker. Please subscribe to my newsletter and my Blog. Follow me on Instagram- drmarciathomas and Subscribe to my Youtube Channel -https://www.youtube.com/@drtpmotivateme2