RESPECT

Little things have a way of developing into big things with time. They include the way we act, speak and think.  

If you look at any organization, it is the way individuals and teams interact with each other, customers and vendors that cumulatively define/create the company persona. The companies that are most successful in creating a positive work environment are the ones that recognize that their ‘people’ are the most critical element attributing to the organization’s success. Recognizing and nurturing desired attributes requires taking an active role in creating a great work place, including role modeling desired behavior and addressing unprofessional behavior.  

When you don’t consciously work at creating a positive work environment, especially in high paced environments, the cohesiveness of your organization can readily unravel. A little while ago, I was asked to assist an executive team resolve conflicts within the organization’s information technology (IT) department where tension had built and was affecting the larger organization. The IT department faced aggressive deadlines and regularly changing priorities which hindered it’s ability to meet performance standards. To assess what was behind the conflict and tension, the IT employees were surveyed regarding their perceptions continued...