My mom always told me that you catch more bees with honey than with vinegar and in the working world, this philosophy TOTALLY applies. I have tried to brand myself as the fun one in the office (and in my new office in 6 days...)- fun but will get my stuff done right. My co-workers know the job will be done with a smile and done right, they also know that if I mess up, there is no problem going back and fixing my mistake. But they are aware that I will not be taken advantage of. If I feel something is unfair- I will stand up for myself but in a way that is non defensive. Putting a co worker on the defense is the worst move you could make (no one likes to be blamed). Everyone likes to feel needed, so instead of asking what their problem with it is, I just reverse it (a line I have learned from my parents) "How can I help to release your stress." or my other personal favorite, "help me help you to fix (whatever is wrong)"
The benefits from being the fun one: people respond to me better. I am able to diffuse tension and everyone is just in a better mood.
I think I might have learned these lessons in college while being the standards head for 100 girls, but never really had to deal with people twice my age... I guess being in a sorority helped prepare me for the real world more than actual college classes did. So thanks Sigma Delta Tau.
Lesson learned:
Life could be so pleasant if people just let things go and move on, but I guess that's what managers are for.. or maybe a new position needs to be created in offices, "the fun one".... That's a challenge I'd be up for... Just remember, not only bees, everyone likes honey better.
Peace, Love and countdown to a new office in a familiar city,
B
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