By Lavern Nissley Encompass Relationship Facilitator Most of us spend way more time in the workplace every week than with our spouses or families. In some ways, workplace relationships can become more complicated and complex than family relationships because of different power, financial, and legal environments. Yet, there are similar dynamics in all settings where humans interact: communication, conflict resolution, stress, emotions, and expectations. For the past 48 years, I've experienced many workplace settings both as an employee as well as a supervisor/overseer of others. Thankfully, most of these settings have been healthy, with only a handful of "nightmare co-workers" to deal with. I've also served as a consultant/facilitator to several dozen organizations during the past 5 decades, and unfortunately have observed workplace dynamics that literally suck the life and joy out of people. Not good! What follows are three overall criteria for a healthy workplace. Each could be "drilled down" for even more depth and specificity. But this is a brief blog, so here goes! What would it feel like if you were in a workplace that had no clear expectations of what you or fellow employees were to do? And if you were reprimanded for NOT accomplishing tasks you didn't even know were yours? Or if multiple employees got into each other's lanes?
What would it feel like if you were in a workplace where personal attacks, unresolved conflicts, and bullying were the norm? If it was unsafe to disagree or to express your concerns? If your blood pressure and pulse went up just walking into your workplace?
It's OK for there to be differences of opinion and perspective. A healthy workplace validates all contributions and provides safe and productive ways to arrive at resolutions. It should never be "the survival of the fittest" - the most vocal, persuasive, or intimidating - that influences conflict outcomes. What if you felt truly fulfilled and fruitful in your workplace and those around you appreciated your contributions to the team?
I believe that a workplace's senior leadership must take the initiative to see that the above three criteria are in place. Failure to do so will result in ambiguity of expectations, lack of safety, and declining morale. Encompass offers a course with optional coaching to help workplaces thrive. Check out our Work Smart, Live Well program and our FREE Workplace Assessment to take a deeper dive into making your workplace healthy.
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HostsDr. David Marine and Theresa Mabry are Co-Directors of Encompass since June 1, 2024. TOPICS
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