Workplaces can be funny environments. There can be a mixture of behaviours, emotions and attitudes that disrupt the flow and make them difficult places to be in. At some point in our work lives we’ve all been angered by management decisions, felt worried about our role and job security, maybe even felt jealous of colleagues who are climbing up the ladder quicker than you or people who seem, in your opinion, to earn unjustifiably more than you. These are all common emotions and it’s how you deal with and manage them that will set the tone.
If you employ people then it’s important to define the culture, behaviours, attitudes, ethos and values of where you and your team work. In an ideal world we would all want to work in a place that:
Encourages new ideas
Fosters creativity
Encourages diversity
Removes discrimination
Openly shares knowledge
Values people and their roles
Acts ethically
Provides opportunities
Recognises the individual
Seeks improvement
However, how many of us can honestly say that we’ve ever worked in a place that delivered on all this?
None of the above is unachievable. The principles outlined above and recognising that we are all different and understanding there will be diverse opinions and perceptions is all part of any modern work environment. Being alive to this and taking a balance approach with your work and colleagues will help to create the right environment for these things to happen. As an entrepreneur it is your job to shape the environment and lead by example. This is how you bring people with you.