Conformity refers to a tendency to follow behaviors of a social group. Groups and social forces influence individuals’ opinions and attitudes. Individuals rely on others’ approval. For example, groups follow leaders (business, religious, cults, and political) who can manipulate opinions. Individuals conform based on weight of merit, suggestibility, authoritative coercion, level of self-confidence, and majority influences. Individuals were more likely to conform to a group due to perceived public pressure in an attempt to remove nonconformity. Embarrassment and shame, linked to low self-confidence, resulted in individuals’ manipulation into compliance despite being wrong. 

Conformity studies demonstrated that even though no one in a group knew a correct answer, the group agreed to one response (autokinetic effect). Americans pre-1960s were defined as conformists. Based on safety, conformity in the current society has resulted in a life change. After September 11, 2001, security checkpoints, surveillance cameras, and body screening became part of the American lifestyle. 

Employees with creative minds and fresh ideas may eschew companies for fear of conformity. Generations X and Y are not willing to give up freedom to become an organization person despite job security. Each new a generation is often encouraged to define themselves absent of the previous generations. However, this encouragement can result in an inability to conform when necessary, for example, following workplace rules. 

Conformity in the workplace means rules, which are monitored for compliance. The workplace has created a thriving environment of personal freedom through global experiences, non-traditional education, and entrepreneurship. However, employees conform to company rules, which can stifle creativity. Rules should be at a minimum to remove distraction from innovation—static rules equal static company. Reviewing rules regularly can insure continued fit to the organizational model. 

How do you conform at work?