One business manager used to regularly yell at his staff who lived in fear of his next explosion. At one government department, a male staff member lodged a claim of Workplace Bullying against his female boss simply so she would back off from her concerns about his poor performance. At a community agency which employed therapists, some team members had not spoken to each other in months.
"People can be difficult wherever you go", says Workplace Relationships Specialist, Ken Warren. "If the truth be told, we can all be difficult at times. But there are some who excel in this regard. When dealing with difficult co-workers or customers, there are three things you must have", Mr Warren says. "Firstly, you need to think before you speak. Secondly, you need to have a plan. And thirdly, you need a gun!" he grins. "Seriously, number three is a back-up plan in case their behaviour worsens.
Having good relationships both within and between teams should be a priority for every workplace", Mr Warren says. "According to the research, positive relationships are the number one thing that helps people to be happy and productive at work. Unfortunately, strained workplace relationships are also the number one thing that contributes to people’s misery at work. Such tensions are a surefire recipe for poor morale, reduced performance, and increased absences and staff turnover", he says.
"It is important to be proactive in either encouraging a positive workplace culture or to act sooner before small problems grow into ones that are much harder to handle", Mr Warren says. "Team members as well as team leaders all have a part to play in contributing to a positive workplace culture".
Mr Warren is soon to run two fun and practical seminars in Canberra at University House, Acton. The first, entitled How to Deal with Angry and Demanding People, will take place on Thursday 22nd May. His second seminar, Secrets to Building a Happy Workplace, will be on Friday 23rd May. Further information can be gained by telephoning 0406 534 800 or through www.kenwarren.com.au
