E-Archive

From Editor's Desk

in Vol. 19 - November Issue - Year 2018
Create a Friendly Environment at Work
Andrzej Wojtas

Andrzej Wojtas

No matter what work surroundings one has, we all need to deal with people. So it is good to know how to develop great relationships at work.

Develop a positive attitude: A positive attitude is key to an enjoyable, more comfortable workplace. A positive or negative attitude also spills over into how your colleagues, co-workers or customers perceive your business, which translates into their willingness to work with you or to do business with you. They can tell when everything is clicking, and they can also tell when things are amiss.

Treat everyone with respect: Everyone you work with deserves respect in the workplace, even when you differ in opinion. Look at each and every person as a vital member of the team. Respect that they have different opinions and ways of looking at the world. This respect will go a long way towards developing the trust and teamwork that will take your ideas or business further.

Practice active listening: Effective communication begins with active listening. Encourage your co-workers to share their thoughts and be open to hearing them all the way through without interrupting or interjecting your own opinions. To foster an environment where everyone feels they have a voice, make your approach "yes, that’s a possibility" rather than "no, that would never work.".

Connect on a personal level: Develop meaningful bonds with your fellow workers. Exchange ideas and personal opinions. Show your empathy and concern for their well-being as people as well as co-workers. Take time to learn about their families and their goals. When you show genuine interest in others, you foster a happier workplace.

Develop relationships outside of work: Go to lunch with your co-workers or plan an off-site event like a bowling night or a day at the ballpark. Get to know each other outside of work. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn more about what makes them tick and you’ll develop even stronger bonds when you discover you have shared interests.

Say thank you: There are all sorts of ways to provide rewards, including praise, recognition, money, prizes, gift cards, celebratory meals, trophies and certificates of achievement. Be liberal with positive feedback and show gratitude when somebody goes above and beyond their normal duties and responsibilities. No matter whether you own a company or are an employee, it never hurts to say „thank you“ if the occasion is suitable.

Best Regards
Andrzej Wojtas (Ph.D.), Chief Editor of MFN, E-mail: andrzej@mfn.li