Platitudes, or meaningless and condescending statements, are often used in emotional situations but are not preferred. Sincere expressions of grief and support are better. In the workplace, platitudes can irritate workers and lead to problems of commitment and morale. Managers should listen to employees and provide honest feedback to retain qualified employees.
The word “flatness” comes from a French word, plat, which means flat. These corny and meaningless claims are sure to fall on the recipients’ ears, often making them feel condescending. Often people can’t think of anything to say in deep or emotional situations and can pick up on the first thing that comes to mind. They can be found urging motivation at work or offering false comfort at funerals, weddings, and other life events. Most people agree that sincere expressions of praise or condolences are much preferred, especially in the workplace.
Most people turn to family and friends in times of crisis. But when they offer platitudes rather than sincere support and sincere expressions of sympathy, the result is the feeling that the upset person is being fired. A bromide, or calming statement, with a clichéd element fails to validate the emotional state of the upset person and seems insincere.
A crisis situation makes people uncomfortable. When faced with a severe stressful event, especially death, it is common to look for an explanation even when there is none. It is also upsetting for many to see someone they care about, even superficially, in a state of despair. Then they try to appease by reassuring the person that their loved one is “better, from the pain, at least it was quick”, etc.
The best way to handle a situation like this, according to those who’ve been through it, is a sincere expression of grief. If one is inclined to offer support rather than platitude, then he should be ready to follow through. A promised visit or helpful action that doesn’t actually occur, like providing a listening ear, or assisting with family arrangements, only adds more stress.
In the workplace, banality has become a managerial tool intended to motivate workers. Trivial phrases such as “Think positive”, “There is no ‘I’ in the team” and others have been shown to irritate workers, especially when management does not support them with their actions. When working conditions are less than ideal, workers find it difficult to take care of their jobs. Supervisors who offer platitudes instead of solutions to problems are seen as indifferent and out of touch, and employees lose respect for them. Problems of commitment and morale soon follow.
Managers can avoid this situation by demonstrating a sincere dedication to thinking before speaking. Instead of using a platitude, they can listen to their employees’ concerns and indicate that they genuinely care not only about the welfare of the company, but the workers. Most people who leave a job don’t do it for the money, but because they don’t feel appreciated and recognized. Praise must be real and focused. Companies that provide honest feedback to their employees, don’t hide their concerns, and make an effort to communicate with them by listening and speaking are more likely to retain qualified employees than those that dismiss their concerns or suggestions with platitudes.
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