As of now, management consultant Anke van Beekhuis (frauenkraft.info) has the best tips about looking for a job, working with colleagues and dealing successfully with bosses once a week - this time: How to get along well with your colleagues.
What does it take to get along well with a wide variety of colleagues?
Basically: You can't suffer everyone. Some people you like and others you just find unsympathetic. The former are usually those who are very similar to me, the latter those from whom I am very different or where envy is involved. This is the case in the professional as well as in the private environment. The difference to my private life: I get paid for my work and if I have to work with colleagues with whom I don't get along personally, then that is irrelevant. The employer wants to see the results of my work. So: Concentrate on your professional tasks. And rely on diplomacy so that it works out with colleagues. Treat your colleagues with respect and don't gossip about them. This is not appropriate, especially as a manager, as you are a role model for your team.
What about friendships in the office? Delicate or even necessary?
Friendship, yes, but don't forget the company. In order to climb the corporate ladder, friendship can sometimes be a hindrance. It always depends on which rope teams you have and which horse (contacts) you are betting on. Friendship is often an obstacle: For example, when women feel guilty about their girlfriend in the same department because they are striving for the same new job. Once it has got one, the friendship seldom lasts. So choose friends in the company wisely.
When is it okay to express criticism? When is it better to say nothing?
Always think about whether you could stand this criticism yourself. If it serves a project or the processes, opt for constructive, factual criticism. Specifically, this means: "You always have to" avoid, rather "With regard to the process, the documents are always missing on time. How could that be improved?" Select. Personal criticism, on the other hand, is difficult to voice because you may be the only one who has a problem with the person. If you criticize too quickly, this could lead to serious problems. Stay on the factual level!
Which topics should be clarified in order to avoid misunderstandings in the first place?
Factual issues (legal framework such as working hours, interpersonal framework such as punctuality, vacation, sick leave, private cell phone, break rituals, Christmas, birthdays, etc.) that are important for the job, role clarity and freedom of decision. A very important point is to discuss with each other what each needs from the other to do a good job. Often it is not discussed in teams. Everyone assumes that the other can assess by when I need something and in what form. However, no one can read minds. Talking about each other's ideas will save you time and trouble later.
From July 12th, Anke van Beekhuis will have the best tips for a good relationship with the boss. You can also acquire more knowledge on the topics directly from Anke van Beekhuis - at the 3rd Woman Management course from September 25th in Vienna. All information on businesscircle.at.
