Bad Cop vs Good Cop – Comparing Leadership Styles

We’ve all probably heard the term “good cop, bad cop” in a movie used as a negotiation tactic where two contrasting individuals try to gain some advantage over a criminal. The good cop is friendly; the bad cop is hostile. The idea here is that the “carrots” the good cop offers are much sweeter in contrast to the bad cop scary behaviour. 

Did you know this is also used in workplaces? The experts at Banana Life delve into a variation of this technique that the same person can play in a corporate environment (often the manager).

The word “boss” 

This title already creates an authoritarian figure that likely makes people’s lives miserable.  According to AP News, 57% of employees have quit over a bad manager. To rectify this, managers are trying to be the good cops. A soft-spoken, agreeable friend that is loved by all. We have to ask, though, does being too nice correlate with a lack of discipline and a drop in performance? 

The research says no

There is no shortage of studies to find the ideal attitude for a manager. For example, a 2015 literature review found that job strain and long working hours see an elevated risk of incident coronary heart disease as well as stroke.

A brass-knuckles boss doesn’t create a stress-free environment. Another study on competitive altruism found that selfless members of the control group gained the highest status. These two facts combined indicate that a positive and humane approach to leadership will provide much better results.

The fine line between selflessness and a pushover 

Being kind does not mean ignoring failures. Good employees are reasonable enough to recognise poor behaviour and why a stern word from management in response doesn’t deserve resentment.

You can make your team feel heard, encourage them to share fresh perspectives, and make it clear that final decisions are in your hands, even if that is not ideal for everyone.

In conclusion, we cite a 2020 study that found abusive supervision negatively affects job satisfaction. So lean toward the good cop side while being sure to keep an appropriate level of authority, and you should be a great manager!

Take a leadership break with our virtual team-building activities

The team at Banana Life offer you a fun opportunity to join your workmates for some team building while we run the show! Do something a little different and have some fun for your next team-building event. Banana Life can help you bond with your staff, no matter where their workplace is situated. Try us and book your end-of-year team event today!