Respectful Communication

As the workforce continues to grow and diversify—spanning different ages, backgrounds, values, and communication styles—the potential for conflict, divisiveness, and alienation of others increases. The ability to use "filters" is one way to maintain a respectful, inclusive workplace.

While sexual harassment (rightfully) generates a significant amount of attention these day, it’s only part of the whole picture. Failing to push toward a holistic understanding of the issue of workplace harassment can have serious consequences on an organization where even well-intentioned behaviors can become harassing conduct.

Use these conflict management tips to move past the negative and toward successful resolutions.

Being more inclusive really comes down to being more open minded, listening to what others have to say, and at least considering their ideas. Here are two practical strategies for improving in these areas.

My writers group could use a class in listening. Last night we were in a restaurant reading a scene from a fellow screenwriter's script. When we were finished, the writer said, "I'll take any suggestions on the ending."

Everyone spoke up at once. It was chaos—everyone talking over the top of each other to be heard.

I read recently that an employee's bad breath can bring down productivity.

At first I thought, no way. That's just a fact created by a breath mint company to sell more product. But after a little Googling, I found that a