Could Authentic Communication Change Workplaces?

The thing  I love about The Cooper Review is the perceptions are funny but accurate. After all how many of you can relate to the picture above?

Having spent more than thirty years in Australian businesses and different industry sectors I think there should be a section of this pie designated to swearing and name calling, don't you as I think reply all emails may be a little inflated?!

Seriously though,  if that's what communication looks like in many businesses how can we make it better?  And how far can we take the Australian predilection for having work colleagues be an extension of our "mates" before it impacts with the welfare of a business? You might be under the impression that the communication that is inside the company's walls can be different and successfully hidden from the view of the customer outside, but this is not the case. what is inside seeps out and in some cases can be a megaphone of the company's business practices that puts prospective customers off purchasing from you. 

Here's what needs to become the norm:

1) open, honest, respectful conversations focused on outcomes

2) dropping the blame game and taking responsibility for our actions and stuff ups when they happen - not when they're found out

3) positive response, regard, support and encouragement for fellow team members rather than gossiping and "white-ant-ing" the work of a colleague you don't like.

4) professional communication standards adhered to

5) having a proactive and transparent conflict resolution process available for all members of the organisation

6) the ability to recognise inappropriate communication, humour and behaviours and a willingness to apologise for the offence and be respectful of others opinions.

7) no tolerance of isolating or bullying language or behaviours.

When these become the norm people will have a workplace that allows all to flourish and fear driven communication and coping mechanisms will be the thing of the past... now don't you think that's worth working towards?

Melody R. Green is an Angel Communicator, Soul Coach, Energy Healer and Award-winning Author of Your Career Your Way. Melody assists others to connect to their Soul Path and bring more joy into their lives.