Conformity Produces Compliance, Not Commitment

When individuals conform to a manager’s ideals, we observe compliance, which many managers tend to confuse with commitment. Just because someone has agreed to follow another person’s standards does not mean that they agree with those standards or support them. Many employees recognize the importance of compliance in maintaining their job at an organization, but they are less likely to contribute any discretionary effort on top of what is expected of them if they have not bought into the manager’s ideals.

The most successful companies and managers understand that commitment is much more powerful than compliance in achieving great things. That is why it is important to find employees whose values align with the values of the organization. We want employees to care about the work they are doing with us, because employees who are committed to the mission and vision of the organization tend to produce at a higher rate than those who are just committed to getting a paycheck.

Think back to your own childhood when someone wanted you to go do something and you asked them why. Did the phrase, “Because I told you so,” motivate you to go do what they were asking of you, or did it just irritate you while you begrudgingly did what they told you to do? If you are like most people, “Because I told you so,” is not an effective encouragement. And if it doesn’t work on a 5-year-old, it stands to reason that it won’t work on an adult either. Instead of having a “my way or the highway” attitude, try explaining to the person why what you are asking of them is important, and make yourself available to them if they have any questions. This open dialogue encourages understanding and commitment.

When we rule out of fear instead of out of trust, we cannot cultivate an effective, committed team. As you lead others in the direction you want them to go, remember that conformity produces compliance, but not necessarily commitment. Getting people to buy-in requires a clear vision and a clear plan for following through with that vision. With that in mind, what can you do to help your people commit to success?

-Meghan Slaughter