Building Positive Relationships In The Workplace

Isn’t it lovely to work with a group of people - colleagues - who all get on well with each other. These positive relationships all contribute to the collective success of any workplace and really do contribute to a healthy and productive environment for all involved. Where teamwork is highlighted in a positive way, colleagues feel happier and communicate well with each other without the need for conflict or dissatisfaction. Unfortunately, according to research, almost three quarters of all employees have worked in an environment which is less than pleasant.

A few key principles can create and nurture positive relationships, all of which lead to job satisfaction and overall success of not only an employee but the company as a whole.

Good communication is essential and is really the basis of any authentic relationship, both personal and work related. It is imperative to be able to actively listen to colleagues' points of view and to engage with them in such a manner where all opinions are valued and respected. This also opens the door for when you have something to say as you will receive the same respect that you give to your colleagues and you will feel listened to. Conversations and any form of dialogue should be actively encouraged and this goes a long way in preventing disagreements or misunderstandings, especially so as everyone will have had the chance to become involved.

This builds trust and without trust there is often a hostile and unfriendly atmosphere.

All colleagues should feel appreciated and that their talents and efforts have been noticed. Often if someone is giving their best and it goes unnoticed, they will undoubtedly begin to feel disheartened and not work to their full potential. By acknowledging hard work, valuable contributions and loyalty, not just by managers, but amongst colleagues themselves, an atmosphere of comradeship is built where colleagues look out for each other. Recognise both team work and individual efforts. It is also important to praise and recognise the efforts gone into a task that perhaps did not work out as anticipated - amongst colleagues there is no failure but a recognition of strength and perseverance, ambition and determination.

When dealing with a group of people in any situation but especially a work related one, there will undoubtedly be difficult and challenging times when emotions run high and extra support is needed. Empathy, understanding, acceptance and compassion are the qualities that will get colleagues through difficult times.

Any negative scenarios must be dealt with swiftly while clearly defining that anything less than honest or acceptable will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Above all, professionalism should be maintained at all times. There is nothing worse than being with a group of people who are corrupt or tend to gossip about unpleasant things. Strong ethics should be upheld at all times along with manners, punctuality and a robust work principle.