Comparing Nonverbal Counterproductive Meeting Behaviors: When Trying to Be Subtle Backfires

Counterproductive meeting behaviors (CMBs) are meeting behaviors that distract members from meeting goals. Using an expectancy violations theory lens, this study explored how subtle, nonverbal CMBs were perceived by meeting members. Additionally, this study considered how apologizing for the behavior may minimize negative perceptions of CMBs. Results showed that meeting members generally viewed subtle, nonverbal CMBs more negatively than the control condition. Further, mobile communication was perceived more negatively than arriving late, and apologies did not impact perceptions of subtle, nonverbal CMBs. These findings are explained in light of expectancy violations theory and apology research.