A workplace is a melting pot of cultures, beliefs, religions, nationalities, and sexual orientations. It is therefore essential that each individual is considerate of one another.
A co-worker can be affected by any offending remarks or misbehavior in many different ways. Consequently, business owners and managers need to make extra efforts to maintain a peaceful workplace.
Disputes and misunderstandings can occur anywhere, even at home and at work. Different perspectives can create tension among team members, and if the leaders fail to resolve disputes, there could be chaos at work. To maintain peace and order in a toxic environment, everyone needs to do their part.
The following are some practical ways to ensure that leaders and employees work together in unity and harmony:
· Avoid taboo topics
Don't bring up taboo subjects unless you know someone or a group really well. You don't know what people's lives entail or do not entail, or what may upset, offend or anger them. It's not okay to assume, especially at work, that your opinion is unanimous.
· Calmly express yourself
People who are loud, impolite, and stressed at work may cause you to react and behave accordingly. For example, you may get tense and raise your voice.
· Don't repeat past mistakes
Be aware if you have seen someone making an offensive comment or if you have done so yourself in the past. However, even if it's an honest mistake, be aware that some people in the office may be offended by your comments.
· Greet your co-workers
When you say good morning with a smile, congratulate colleagues and bosses on their birthday, and thank them for their good work, you contribute to better relationships and less stress at work.
· Don't be rude
Treat people politely at all times. The result of being rude or inconsiderate will be a similar response, which will aggravate the situation.