How to work well with others or what to do when our biggest problems are people, not computers, Part 3

Ed note: I made a mistake in breaking this article into 3 parts in that I cut the last tip in half—I was simply not paying attention at the page break. Every nugget of advice Gayle gives often convicts me and I didn't go any further than the "so what?" That question got me thinking and I cut off the article at the wrong place.  To correct that, I'm starting this part with the full tip. Please forgive any confusion this might have caused.

How to work well with others or what to do when our biggest problems are people, not computers, Part 3

• give the benefit of the doubt
Petty squabbles and imagined slights make it difficult, if not impossible, to work at our best. Ann thinks the youth minister disrespected her by not recognizing her role in a project; Betty is sure Ann missed a deadline because she wasted time on personal matters. Both are operating on assumptions that may or may not have a basis in fact. And, even if the assumptions are true, really—so what?

When occasional glitches happen, give others the benefit of the doubt. If you make any assumption, let it be that the other person meant you no harm. Very often you will be right. If glitches persist or escalate, it is time to ask questions. Getting to the bottom of a problem need not be a bad thing, but have the facts before you even consider confrontation.

• don’t tell everything you know
The original definition for the position of secretary was, “one who keeps secrets.” Today this may sound a bit sinister, but initially it emphasized the expectation this person could be trusted with information.

Confidentiality remains an essential for the Christian professional. Supervisors, coworkers, and members need to know without question that staff members can be trusted with information. Working well with others requires trustworthiness.

• ask and listen
All of us appreciate working with those who ask our opinion and listen to our ideas. As you work with others, be a person who gives ample opportunities for everyone to be heard. Few people are excellent listeners; you can be a role model by demonstrating that we learn more from listening than from talking. Next time you are with your group, ask—then listen up!

__________________________________________________________________

To go to Part 1 of this article, CLICK HERE.

To go to Part 2 of this article, CLICK HERE.