We all saw it: a tech CEO with his arms wrapped amorously around his Chief People Officer (fancy name for human resources director) on the giant screen that was the kiss cam at a Coldplay concert. Both are married (or were), but not to each other, and immediately panicked and tried to hide once they noticed they were on candid camera. However, their reaction caught everyone’s attention and got the video posted all over social media. Busted. While there is no denying how messy and ridiculous the situation is, I think it could be a good learning opportunity as well. Here are three lessons we can learn from the Coldplay Cam Incident.
- Work relationships can turn into amazing friendships, but there must be boundaries. And when it comes to relationships with people higher up in the chain of command, there are serious concerns about power dynamics involved. Remember, if you are ever afraid to tell someone “no” because you have reason to believe they could threaten your job or retaliate against you, consent is not possible in that situation. If someone is touching you beyond handshakes and consensual brief hugs or making comments about your body or your private life, there is likely cause for concern. Workplaces should feel professional and safe.
- Good leadership starts with emotionally mature leaders, and while I don’t personally know the Coldplay culprits, their actions did not scream “emotional maturity”. Emotional safety at the workplace is a significant predictor of employee retention and productivity. If you want to be a good leader, reflect on your ability to handle and express your emotions, your ethics, and how you treat others when you have power over them.
- Human resources are supposed to be there for employees. Of course, this is not true 100% of the time (like if the HR Director is having an affair with the CEO, she might be bias in favor of the company), but overall, if you are experiencing harassment, unfair treatment, or have gotten injured at work, Human Resources are the ones who will help you navigate next steps. Other sources of support can be unions and other leaders in the company, higher up the chain of command. You have rights as an employee of a company, and there are departments and even outside organizations that will help ensure that your rights are respected.
Overall, workplaces should feel respectful, even when they are challenging. Setting and respecting boundaries is crucial to being a good employee and a good leader. As a leader, while it’s probably true that no one is asking you to be perfect, you are being looked at as an example, role model, and representation of your organization, so living with ethical standards you can be proud of is important to sustaining your organization. You know what they say; karma sees all, and Chris Martin sees the rest.
