One sure way to create a better working environment…

Posted: May 8, 2019 | Categories: Self-Improvement, Team Building

A productive team knows how to synergistically solve problems.  It is a skill, and for most of us, it takes practice.  One of the best places to practice is in our own home.  Every family has their share of problems along with an occasional crisis.  How a family bands together to solve the problem can be vital to its well-being. Here is an example:

When my son David was 16, he came home from school one day all excited about getting an IPod.  I knew how much an Ipod cost, and I also understood he could afford one.  David is frugal by nature.  I said, “How much is this IPod going to cost you?”   “$200” he said.  That sounded like a very low price.  I asked him directly, “Is this hot merchandise?”  “Yeah, I know someone who has a bunch of them”.  I wanted to react, but instead I simply affirmed what David said.  “So the way you see it, if you buy this, you would be in possession of stolen merchandise, but you wouldn’t be stealing it directly.  Is that right?”  In a defiant tone, he said, “Yeah”.  I responded with silence.  30 minutes later, David said, “Dad, can you take me to the store.  I want to get that IPod”.  I wanted him to make the right choice.  I also wanted him to take part in the decision (Ownership)

This is a family problem.  In the workplace, there are problems almost every day for many.  There is miscommunication, people get offended, someone drops the ball, or you find you need to get in alignment with a co-worker or boss.  When you must confront, here are the rules:

1.  Begin in a friendly way with a respectful tone.
2. Ask questions to understand.
3. Listen to understand.  Suspend judgment.
4. Affirm what you have heard.
5. Instead of making a statement or speech, ask a question.
6. Create a win-win

If you and your team can do this consistently when confronting problems, you will find yourself working in a more favorable and fulfilling working environment.

---