How to embrace trust and empathy in the workplace: a quick guide.

Displaying trust, empathy, and showing care is essential for building positive relationships with colleagues and fostering a healthy and productive work environment.??

When these power skills are embraced and demonstrated by managers, they have the potential to have a long-lasting impact on the wider business culture and employee engagement rates, creating a more harmonious and productive work environment.?

So, how do you embracenbsp;these power skills?nbsp;

?? Active Listening:?

Pay close attention when others are speaking.??

Show that you are fully engaged in the conversation by making eye contact, nodding, and asking clarifying questions.

This demonstrates that you value their perspective and care about what they have to say.?

?? Open and Honest Communication:?

Be transparent and forthcoming in your communication.?

Share information, updates, and feedback openly.??

When you’re open about your thoughts and feelings, it fosters an environment of trust.?

?? Empathetic Responses:??

Try to understand others’ feelings and perspectives.?

If a colleague is going through a challenging time or facing difficulties, express empathy and offer support.??

Use phrases like, “Is there anything I can do to help?”?

?? Respect Boundaries:?

Respect personal boundaries and privacy. Don’t pry into personal matters unless the person is comfortable sharing.?

This demonstrates that you value their space and individuality.?

?? Follow Through on Commitments: ?

If you make a promise or commitment, ensure that you follow through on it. This builds trust as colleagues can rely on you to keep your word.?

?? Offer Assistance:??

When you see a colleague struggling with their workload or facing challenges, offer your help. Even a simple, “Can I help you with anything?” can go a long way in showing that you care.?

?? Recognise Achievements:??

Celebrate successes and achievements.??

Acknowledge their hard work and accomplishments, whether big or small. This boosts morale and demonstrates your appreciation.?

?? Constructive Feedback:??

When providing feedback , focus on constructive critique rather than critique for its own sake.?

Offer suggestions for improvement and show that you want to help them grow and succeed.?

?? Be Reliable:?

Be dependable and consistent in your actions and behaviour.??

When people can rely on you, it builds trust over time.?

?? Respect Diversity:??

Show respect for diversity in the workplace.??

Be inclusive and open-minded, valuing different perspectives and backgrounds.?

?? Conflict Resolution:??

When conflicts arise, approach them with a problem-solving mindset rather than judgement. Listen to both sides, find common ground, and work toward a resolution that benefits everyone involved.?

?? Lead by Example:?

Model the behaviours you want to see in your team.??

Demonstrate trust, empathy, and care consistently, and others will likely follow suit.?

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Although they might seem very straightforward and obvious, these skills are often forgotten and not fully embraced.

It’s important to note though that these ARE the skills that will make the most impact on your teams and your culture, and while they might seem “easy” to embrace, they require practice and a willingness to implement them.?

This article has been written by Alessandra Atria for The Motivation Agency in March 2024