Jess Kutch: What productive conflict can offer a workplace

The video discusses labor organizing, focusing on the reactions it elicits, ranging from confusion to excitement. It highlights the importance of understanding conflict in the workplace, emphasizing productive conflict as a tool for positive change. A case study of an employee-led campaign for wage increases illustrates the power of collective action. The video encourages business leaders to embrace conflict as a means to improve workplace dynamics and adapt to changes in the work environment.

What is the primary purpose of Coworker.org as described by the speaker?

• To organize patient files in hospitals

• To help coworkers organize for workplace improvements

• To provide cleaning services for offices

• To offer online courses for professional development

How does the speaker describe the reactions to their work?

• Hostile and aggressive

• Confused, uncomfortable, or excited

• Neutral and indifferent

• Supportive and encouraging

What does the speaker suggest is a key factor in the strong reactions to their work?

• The need for more training programs

• The lack of communication skills

• The presence of conflict in the workplace

• The complexity of organizing

In the story of Alex, what was the outcome of the campaign for wage increases?

• The company fired Alex

• The company raised wages by 5 to 15%

• The company ignored the campaign

• The company reduced employee benefits

What does the speaker identify as a surprising finding about employee activism?

• It often occurs in workplaces where employees care about their jobs

• It is most common in the worst workplaces

• It leads to increased employee turnover

• It is usually ineffective in bringing change

According to the speaker, how should business leaders view conflict in the workplace?

• As a temporary inconvenience

• As an opportunity for growth and improvement

• As a threat to be eliminated

• As a sign of poor management

What does the speaker hope employees will do when invited to join workplace organizing efforts?

• Report it to management

• Ignore the invitation

• View it as an opportunity to improve the workplace

• Decline due to fear of conflict