Be Kind to Your Colleague...and other Tips for Effective Communication

As we enter into the holiday season, and in honor this Tuesday's #WorldKindnessDay, we just wanted to share a few quick tips and reminders on how to have a peaceful interactions with each other, especially when it comes to the workplace.

We know that during work, especially in the hospitality industry, the environment can be fast-paced - and clients and managers may be hurriedly asking for tasks to be completed, so here are few tips to keep in mind:

1) Avoid making accusations and work to keep your tone neutral. In many cases, people do not realize they have caused offense when conflicts arise. Apologize for any part you may have played in the situation. If both parties understand the goals, it is easier for everyone to work toward common ground.

2) Avoid the conflict altogether. It’s always best to address a conflict sooner rather than later. This helps to avoid excess tension that can build up over time. Start by asking nicely if you don’t understand why someone has behaved a certain way or if they can change their behavior.

3) If needing to vent, please do so AWAY from the workplace. When you're clashing with someone at work, venting to a friend during a shift may feel satisfying in the moment — but workplace gossip has the potential to backfire very quickly. First of all, there are ears everywhere, and you will look unprofessional if anyone over-hears you badmouthing a colleague. Secondly, it's unfair to the person you're having conflict with, because everyone still has to work together. PLUS, who wants a reputation as the person at work who talks trash about everyone else? We all need to vent after a tough work day, but when the problem is a colleague conflict, try to call a friend or family member once you're home instead of letting off steam in the break room. If you are having trouble resolving a conflict and it has gone on for some time, consider contacting a manager to help dissolve some of the tension.

Cheers to a festive season ahead!