Corruption and work environment.

Following yesterday's AID meeting, I learnt an important lesson - when criticizing something, don't just criticize, offer an alternate.

In the context of my previous post on RDB, here is what I think on fixing the problem of corruption. Corruption is not just taking bribes. It includes doing a shoddy job, not doing what is supposed to be done, cheating at work, etc. I don't think corruption can be eliminated by eliminating or punishing corrupt people. As long as the environment is ripe for corruption, someone or other will fill in. Rather I think it can be fixed by changing the circumstances that lead to corruption. When I say circumstances, I am referring to the work environment in general. Someone who is very proud of his work is unlikely to be corrupt at work. Someone who enjoys his work, takes pride in his work, his work place and colleagues will not do anything that demeans his office. He will be motivated to work and be responsible, feel obligated towards discharging his duties. I am not just taking about better compensation for the employees. Its only part of the solution. Work conditions, facilities, leadership, recognition, flexibility, independence, availability of information, etc all play a vital role in making ones job a pleasant experience.

What makes me think like this, which some might call naive? Studies have shown that a better work culture leads to better employee morale, better productivity, and a happier organization with excellent employee, customer and shareholder satisfaction. The direct correlation between a companies standing in the best places to work list and their innovation and earnings stream is a testimony to this. Isn't that our aim, in one way, in eliminating corruption?

How does this translate into the circumstances for a minister in the government to work in? For starters, may be we should stop automatically categorizing all politicians as corrupt, learn to recognize good politicians and appreciate what they are doing. Also, start understanding the long term impact of decisions they take for the country's people rather than look for quick fixes from the ministers and convert that understanding into appreciation at the time of election. Ofcourse, this cannot stand on its own. I am looking at a cultural shift at vaious levels, something not easily done.

So, may be, one approach to the problem of corruption is revamping the work environment in places of high corruption. Provide better recognition, instill a sense of pride, understand the strengths and weaknesses and provide leadership accordingly. Remember leaders also need leadership and leadership doesn't have to come just from above.