Being Real At Work

In the workplace, speaking your mind is seen as a good thing… but it can also mess with how team members get along.

Ever said something straightforward to your colleague and felt the tension in the air as soon as the words came out of your mouth and for much, much later too? It’s what being too honest can do. When you forget to consider how your words land, it can lead to hurt feelings or create an uncomfortable atmosphere within our teams. It's like a double-edged sword - truth is good, but if it cuts too deep, it can be harmful.

Here’s what you can do as you draw the thin line between being honest and respectful:

Listen… take it in… and think before you speak
Our words have power, and sometimes they can trigger conflicts. Picture having a conversation with a colleague and he’s sharing an opinion you don’t really agree with. By actively listening, considering their perspectives, and empathising with their feelings, we can prevent misunderstandings from escalating into full-blown disputes.

Create a safe space and build trust
Coworkers thrive in an environment where everyone feels safe to voice their opinions. It’s advisable for leaders and managers to allow a space for team members to express their feelings freely. When leaders openly share both their successes and challenges, it fosters an atmosphere where honesty is valued and reciprocated. Trust grows when people know they can speak their minds without fear.

Improve your communication skills
Speaking our minds without hurting others takes practice, especially when you’re the kind of person who’s used to speaking your mind and being blunt. If you have this problem, considering attending training programmes that focus on effective communication can help you navigate these waters better. Offering guidance on expressing thoughts in a considerate manner can benefit everyone.

Respect personal boundaries
Understanding personal boundaries is vital in workplace conversations. Some topics might be too sensitive or private. Respecting these boundaries while being honest demonstrates empathy and consideration for colleagues' feelings. Check out our old articles on what is considered too personal in the office and how to reel in the oversharing.

Be considerate!
Obviously, being honest at work with your colleagues is important to build that trust and bond but you also need to consider how our words affect others. It's about being straightforward without causing harm. When we strike this balance, our teams flourish, and our workplaces become more harmonious and productive.

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash.