Values are established from a very young age and can be influenced by people and environments. Most would agree that our values drive our behavior and our communication with others. Our behavior can be influenced by internal value conflicts. These conflicts shape our ethical instinct and attitudes toward right and wrong behavior. Attitude choices include decisions to be happy, sad, optimistic, open-minded, pessimistic, etc. With this said, there are a variety of factors that influence one's attitude, such as psychological, emotional, cognitive, and social needs being fulfilled.
W4: Discussion
Discussions: Self-disclosure can be a rewarding, but often challenging, exercise to determine our own communication challenges. The Johari Window offers a non-threatening model to help provide feedback and communication among peers and co-workers (see video under Content – Week 4 - Reading and Resources). Sometimes, we may forget about all the emotions present at work. Some of these emotions result from personal difficulties, work pressure and stress, and/or the ability to perform beyond our potential.
Based on your readings this week (see Content - Week 4 - Reading and Resources), and regardless of the emotions experienced at work, having a strategy to deal with emotions and conflicts can help to create a happier work environment. What proactive steps can be taken to hold our emotions in check in the face of ineffective communication and leadership practices? How can self-disclosure facilitate effective communication in the workplace? Be creative in your answer!
W5: Discussion
Discussions: A great place to work doesn't happen by chance. Leaders and employees must have the conscious intention of creating a workplace with positive energy. Leaders must establish workplace boundaries to deter the barriers that can damage a positive workplace culture. The individual employee also has a responsibility to engage in self-assessment, as well as identify ways to enhance one's positive self-image.
W6: Discussion
Discussions: The days of working on an individual basis in the workplace are over. Positions that are not involved in a team, committee, or work group at some point during the year are extremely rare. Unless formal training is provided for a team, it is common to find dysfunction within a team.
W7: Discusison
Discussions: The days of working on an individual basis in the workplace are over. Positions that are not involved in a team, committee, or work group at some point during the year are extremely rare. Unless formal training is provided for a team, it is common to find dysfunction within a team.
W8: Discussion
Discussions: Since the 1960's we have seen a steady stream of more women entering the workplace. The 2000's brought more women to senior leadership positions. This shift in the workforce has created challenges and opportunities for all. Increased sexual harassment cases, balancing life and family, and equal wages and job opportunities are just a few of the challenges. Organizations, and federal and state governments, are finding ways to address these issues.
Effective Human Relations Communications Style Self-Assessment Exercise (see attachment)
Take this assessment, and take some time to consider the results based on what you have learned so far in this class. This assignment is designed to help you understand your communication style, and identify ways to build self-confidence when communicating with others. Your personal values influence the ethical choices that you make, the attitudes that shape your life, and the way that you motivate yourself and others.
- What did you learn from taking this assessment?
- What action do you plan to take as a result of this assessment?
- How can you use this information to improve your human relations communication style
Sample Solution