Creating a good place to work

Some days work can be difficult. Everyone has an occasional day they would like to forget but there is no reason why every day has to be a tough one. If you want to create a work environment that is both productive and pleasant, do the following:

• Listen carefully when people are expressing concerns. Resist the impulse to get defensive.
• Don’t take part in or stand by while others are speaking poorly of colleagues, clients, partners or vendors. Be honest with others about how inappropriate and unprofessional such conversation is.
• Acknowledge all individuals in a respectful manner.
• Start each day by saying “good morning” when you get to the office; end each day by saying “good-bye” when you leave.
• Ask for help when you need it.
• Offer to help a fellow worker if he or she is struggling to complete a task.
• Share your knowledge graciously. Pass information to others.
• Recognize that people have different work styles – and that what matters is that the work is getting done.
• Don’t wear strong scents or whistle in the office.
• Give credit where credit is due.
• Take responsibility for your own actions; don’t blame others.
• Model respectful behavior at all times.
• Focus on mission.

Following these suggestions won’t eliminate every difficult day, but the office will be a far more pleasant place to be – and productivity will flourish.

_{Administration Matters September 2011}