If we want to maintain a healthy work environment, we have to realize the importance of having and communicating our expectations of one one another. Not only should employers have expectations of their employees, but also, employees should have expectations of their employer. In order to keep the work environment healthy, both should feel comfortable enough to hold each other accountable.
Create a healthy work environment by communicating expectations.
Maintaining a healthy culture is not an easy feat. It requires a lot of hard work from everyone and begins with establishing expectations. By this I mean communicating what you expect from them, and what they expect from you.
For example: employers expect punctuality, communication, respect, accountability, etc. Employees expect mutual respect, honesty, fairness, appreciation, etc.
When we establish this from the beginning, it lays everything out on the table so there are no hidden surprises. It lays the groundwork for a honest and transparent relationship.
Communication is a two way street – the good, the bad, and the ugly.
It’s important to remember that healthy relationships are created when both parties feel safe to communicate when times are both good and bad.
When you only communicate with others when they are doing something bad, they will become weary of you. When you call them into your office, or over the phone, they’re going to start thinking, “Uh-oh, what did I do wrong this time?” It has a negative impact on your relationships and your co-workers will start to treat you like the grim reaper – never happy or thrilled to see you.
Communicating when things are going well is just as important as communicating when things are going poorly. Remember to congratulate your co-workers when they accomplish their goal, or just simply chat with them about how they’re doing. Make the relationship genuine and real. This will help solidify your relationship and encourage them to talk to you when things are going well and not so well.
The more you do it, the easier it becomes.
Confrontation can make you feel like you’re doing something wrong even when you’re simply speaking up for yourself.
It’s easy to try and let things slide, thinking, “It’s fine, I’ll just let it go.” Are you really going to let it go? Or are you going to harbor those feelings, creating resentment towards the other person? Resentment is uncommunicated expectations. It’s like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.
- In other words, you feel slighted in some way, but the other person has no idea. You hold it in and expect them to come to the realization all on their own – which will most likely never happen unless you say something. You can’t read minds, so why would you expect them to?
The main point I hope you take away from this is, would you rather feel uneasy for a few moments by voicing your opinion and having a difficult conversation that leads to resolution? Or, would you rather stay quiet, and resent yourself for not speaking up at all? It’s your choice either way.
If it still bothers you after 2-3 days, talk about it. If not, let it lie. It’s important to have these types of conversations when you are clear and level headed.
Remember, no one else is going to stand up for you; you have to do it for yourself.
What are your thoughts on the matter?