People Power! by Jennifer H. Ledet,SPHR
November 20, 2008
Regardless of your education, background, experience, technical expertise, or ability to solve complicated mathematical equations, you will sink your career quickly if you don’t’ have good people skills and the ability to form positive relationships with co-workers and customers. So what, you say? How important are effective work relationships?
Many successful individuals cite their ability to form and maintain positive interpersonal relationships as the foundation for their success. Effective work relationships form the basis for promotion, pay increases, goal accomplishment, and job satisfaction.
So how does one hone the skill of developing beneficial relationships – or “People Power” – as I call it?Well, here are a few simple, but definitely powerful actions you can take to build positive relationships:
- Treat people with respect. No one wants to be belittled, degraded, or otherwise discounted as a human being or as an employee.
- Recognize the achievements of others. A little praise can go a long way, with subordinates as well as co-workers. Think about how nice it is to receive a pat on the back for a job well-done. Pass it on! Encourage employees to praise and recognize each other as well.
- Be open to others’ ideas, thoughts, and strategies. Before you rush to cut someone off, butt in, or interrupt them, try really listening. You might actually learn something.
- Always give credit where credit is due and never play the blame game when things don’t go well. No one wants to have their mistakes pointed out for all to see. Instead focus on possible solutions to the problem.
- Although you may be intently focused on getting the job done, it only takes a moment to exchange pleasantries and to show sincere interest in other people.
My last point on building interpersonal relationships is to take some time to get to know the individual. I think that the golden rule should always be applied when it comes to treating people with respect. But at work, you may want to use the “Platinum Rule”: Treat others as they wish to be treated. To do so, you will need to get to know them to find out how they wish to be treated – and you will need to understand yourself as well.
As a certified facilitator for DiSC behavior and self-development instruments, I have come to appreciate the importance of self-awareness and understanding in the workplace for team members, and particularly for anyone in a leadership role. By having this self- understanding, you can learn to appreciate and value the differences we all bring to the organization. You’ll also learn to adapt your communication style to have more positive interactions in all directions within your organization. I have found the DiSC instruments to be effective and valuable in all industries and with all levels of employees.
Having proficient people skills – or “People Power” – will have a greater positive influence on your organization, your career, your personal relationships, and your life, than any technical competencies you might possess. So get the Power!
To Your Success,
Jennifer
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