Bitchy and negative team

[Changeofjob]

I seeking advice about how to inspire and motivate 15 of the most negative and bitchy people I have ever met. We are falling behind with our targets and we are the worst performing team in the organisation.

Sorry I'm no help but I think we must work at the same place!

1. Are you in a position to be respected when putting these forward?
2. You need to sort the route of the problem, why is morale down? Why are people bitchy?
3. Implement new standards and expectations, with consequences and rewards. Clear, easy targets mixed with some long term ones.
4. Cut any dead weight. It may seem harsh but if someone is drastically lowering morale, affecting team performance or underperforming then not only will you send a clear and firm message but also get rid of any bad eggs.

Where i work, we have a system in place which tries to increase team bonding and reduce stress between team members. The system is based on studies of Chimpanzees, specifically bonobos. How it works is when conflict arises in the team, we take a day off collectively and shag eachothers brains out in the office. Hope this helps!