Getting Up Close and Personal With Professional Relationships - by Matt Parker

“Pro-personal. That’s what we call the type of working relationship that’s just the right blend of professional and personal. But how do you draw a line between nosy and intrusive, and sensitive and open??

For me, the ideal scenario is having some insight into who your colleagues really are as people, including their out-of-work pressures, passions and interests, which then allows for a thriving professional relationship that’s handled with sensitivity, understanding and empathy.?

Of course, there are some people who wish to keep their personal and professional selves very separate. And that’s more than fine. However, for myself and the people I work with, good working relationships are 100% key to our success, and the personal element to our relationships (at just the right level) is what makes our team great.”

Bringing your whole self to work?

“A few months back, my colleague, Nicky, published a thought-provoking article, here on LinkedIn, on the topic of bringing your whole self to work. She discussed how masking your ‘true self' to fit in or get on can be incredibly demotivating and tiring. And this is what I’m talking about here. People may wish to create an impenetrable professional persona where their ‘out of work self’ is well hidden away, however, I feel this must be approached with caution, as it runs the risk of not being able to seek and secure (or attract) the support you really need. And let’s face it, we all need support some of the time. And that’s OK.”

The remote working effect

“I might have said otherwise before lockdown, but despite the obvious benefits of forging an authentic and open relationship on a face-to-face basis, where you get to spend entire days, weeks, months, years, working side-by-side with people, I do believe that a good pro-personal relationship can also be achieved remotely.?

We have daily calls with all members of the business, and I regularly video call colleagues, which I feel has strengthened working relationships. Being able to easily reach out knowing people are there is great.”?

Working relationships supported by culture?

“Iridium makes a point of supporting our entire team in developing strong pro-personal relationships in a multitude of ways, including regular lunch gatherings and social events. This allows us to build trust and get to know each other outside of our work setting.?

Being comfortable with people allows for more honesty and collaboration, and I believe that stems from strong professional relationships and a clear understanding of what people want to achieve.

I have a fantastic bond with all my colleagues at Iridium, and this is replicated throughout the company. Everyone goes above and beyond for each other, and there’s a strong sense that we are all in the same boat and want better ourselves, others and the business as a whole.”

How to achieve a comfortable pro-personal relationship?

“I think there is always a fine line with personal and professional relationships, and everyone is different as to what they want to share and how they want to act. It’s important to ensure the line isn’t overstepped, and a certain amount of emotional intelligence is needed in achieving this.?

The safest way to make sure somebody isn’t left feeling overexposed and uncomfortable is taking small steps in getting to know them; let them take the lead in showing their true self, and gauge things from there.? I, personally, am very open - and when people see me doing this, they often follow suit.?

It definitely helps team members to see a more human side at all levels of a company’s team, from the top down. An open, approachable and honest vibe means anybody can feel comfortable asking for help, whilst creating a sense of belonging - which is ultimately a breeding ground for success and growth.

If I was to give any business advice on nurturing pro-personal relationships, I’d say transparency, communication and authenticity must be at the heart of everything it does. These things are really important in creating a culture that truly puts people first.?

Iridium operates in this way, and the advantages are vast. People know where they stand within the business, we share the same goals, and we work more effectively - with not an ego in sight.?

And my advice for individuals wanting to improve their pro-personal relationships… Be kind, be human, be honest and don’t try to be something or someone you’re not.”

Do you have anything to add on the subject of pro-personal working relationships? Matt would love to hear from you. You can drop him an email at [email protected] or message him on LinkedIn.??