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For every Human Resource Manager, communication is an essential tool in the workplace. The success of the company solely depends on the nature of relations among workers. While a toxic work environment isn’t anyone’s dream, a workplace where non-violent communication prospers is definitely everyone’s choice.
The way people interact in the workplace can be a reason why, in the case of a breach, the otherwise cordial and comfortable place could quickly turn into a toxic den. It not only affects the effectiveness of everyone’s work but also plays an important role in shaping the employer brand of your company. The latter then affects such aspects of the business as employee onboarding and retention helping HR managers to attract the best candidates (or making it nearly impossible for companies with toxic corporate culture).
The ideal way to foster non-violent communication is by learning the principles of the non-violent way of expressing one’s views. Below are the four components of non-violent communication HR managers can implement in the workplace.
1. Observe
The first step in fostering non-violent communication is observing without drawing conclusions or making assumptions.
Do not make a judgment as below:
· You are irresponsible, and you didn't finish the work
Instead, make an observation.
· You didn't finish the work I left.
The goal is to state facts and create a level ground for a conversation. All parties begin at a point where nobody is at an advantage or is on the receiving end of violent communication.
2. Consider Others’ Feelings
Feelings constitute a substantial part of our communication. In the principles of non-violent communication, showing your feelings and expressing your emotions come second.
Here, you freely express your emotions, give your workmates time to respond, and invite others to share in their feelings. Human beings tend to connect easily with emotions. Therefore, expressing your emotions doesn't only connect you with your workmates but also improve non-verbal communication.
Because emotions, or lack thereof, can ruin even the greatest of masterplans, having a grasp of your feelings in the workplace is essential. It helps to avoid trouble and in turn, fosters a unique understanding as a result of connecting through feelings.
For example, here is a statement you could make that will express your emotions:
· I feel disrespected that you are all ignoring my proposition.
The statement clearly states how one feels without evaluation.
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3. Respect Others’ Needs
To create a positive atmosphere in the workplace, every worker's needs should be addressed.
This third principle of non-violent communication seeks to highlight potential sources of conflict. By understanding the needs of each worker, the chances of having them connect with their feelings increase which helps to implement non-violent communication.
According to Patricia Paz, an HR manager at the Top Writers Review company, "There are many fights in workplaces due to misunderstandings in terms of needs between Human Resource Managers and workers.” She explains: “Once your efforts to get something is blocked, some employees might feel the need to protect their interests proactively or even aggressively. The failure to secure what you need then grows into hate, and before you know it, you are in a toxic working environment."
It, therefore, gives no room for hurtful sentiments that will result in a counterattack or self-defense utterances that may lead to a conflict.
For example:
· Responding to my proposition shows that you respect me
The above statement identifies your needs and gives the other parties a chance to state their needs. A clear and straightforward way of identifying needs speeds up the rectification process. It, therefore, fosters non-violent communication.
4. Make Clear Requests
According to the last principle of non-violent communication, your requests should be considerable and accommodating. It is a basic understanding that fosters non-violent communication by looking for each other.
For example:
· Could you try giving me feedback on my proposal next week?
This way, you are making a clear request and ensuring that you've been considerate enough to the other party.
Implementing Non-Violent Communication
The workplace is where we spend most of our day. As such, positivity and a healthy work culture should reign. Communication in the workplace should be efficient, effective, and satisfactory for everyone. This way, you ensure that your employees are happy and thus, productive.
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- How To Foster Non-Violent Communication In The Workplace - December 5, 2019
