Isn’t it wonderful to feel respected? When we are respected at work, we feel safe to express our opinions and therefore are more willing to take the initiative to make suggestions and adapt to changes. Our thoughts run along the lines of: “this is my team…this is where I belong and contribute.” When conflict occurs, everyone gives each other the benefit of the doubt and the result is productive change.
What happens if you are employed somewhere without a respectful workplace? In toxic workplaces, team members are reluctant to contribute their ideas for fear of ridicule or rejection so they feel less connected to the organization. Doesn’t sound like a very pleasant place to be!
Successful organizations are able to achieve talent excellence by channeling everyone’s unique contribution to achieve their goals. It all starts with focusing on respect. Here are four tips to start building a respectful workplace:
- Practice Active Listening: Begin by being fully present during conversations utilizing good eye contact. Other listening techniques include asking open-ended questions, paraphrasing and reflecting so individuals feel heard and respected.
- Learn Your Team Member’s Strengths: To build more effective relationships with your team members, take the time to get to know each of their strengths and preferences. Employees will feel respected when they are appreciated for utilizing their unique abilities to contribute to team success.
- Encourage Cross Communication: To create a better appreciation of the challenges of others, encourage communication about goals and priorities between individuals and departments. By creating opportunities for team members to interact, it will result in learning each other’s preferred work style and an understanding of how their job impacts others.
- Provide Team Training: Training workshops provide valuable techniques towards building a respectful workplace. Training can include listening skills, trust building, resolving conflict, understanding different personality styles, etc.
The DiSC Workplace program is a great place to start building cohesive teams and a respectful workplace. For other team building topics go to: http://managementskillsinc.com/workshops/team-building-workshops/ To discuss ideas for your program, contact us at: Deborah.Avrin@ManagementSkillsInc.com