Create a "Helping Environment"
When you experienced the Thriving in Chaos workshop you realized that one of the most prominent tips was the need to ask for help. The superstar holding all of the items really did need help. I am writing about this topic again because honestly, I still think we have along way to go on this issue.
One of the most basic motivators for employees is the need to be seen as competent. They want their supervisors as well as their co-workers to think they know what they are doing. Consequently, the notion of asking questions to reveal what they don't know is not seen as an option. And asking for help from others - well, it's just not done!
Yet in today's workforce, where everyone is challenged to do more with fewer resources, it makes perfect sense to cultivate a strong "helping environment." A work environment where, "How can I help you?" and "Will you help me?" are used as frequent as Hello," "Goodbye," and "What's for lunch?"
I am confident that there are small pockets of people who have this helping attitude. You probably call it "having each other's back." Yet it is likely a defense mechanism against "THEM," rather than a positive and collegial management strategy.
So what can you do to foster a "Helping Environment?"
1. Take the personal risk of asking for help. Role model this behavior.
2. Show deep and sincere appreciation, with pies, cakes, flowers
and smiles all the time, to those who help.
3. Be gracious and accept the call for help from others. Don't
give the "audible sigh," the "you are bothering me face," or the "you
are stupid for asking me" tone of voice.
In other words, adopt a positive helping attitude and see if it spreads around the office!
Tracy Knofla
Featured Consultant
High Impact Training
Have you ordered your copy of the long awaited book, Thriving in Chaos?
------
Are Tracy's Tips Helpful?! Send an
email and tell Tracy
how you are incorporating her tips into your daily life!
------
Feel free to share Tracy's Tips with your friends and colleagues.