Lack of Communication
Lack of communication in a workplace is usually a sign of team strife. When team members don't get along they tend to avoid speaking. This can be changed by addressing any underlying issues that are causing the tension in the department. How can one avoid that?
I have found asking for feedback is an effective way to show that the manager is listening to ideas and if addressed with the employee individually builds trust and support.
I have found that coaching team members to address conflict between each other is effective in coming to a quick resolution. Most issues of conflict are a result of misconception and miscommunication.
Unfortunately this is a major issue at my workplace. Nut one ofthe main problems is that we have several individulas who want to be n charge, eventhough their titles dont dictate that. There are too many people who want to by the chief and not the indian. I think when thee are so many people ewho want o be in charge they stop communicationg with each other and just start doing their on thing.
It probably cannot be avoided but the tension and underlying issues can be addressed. Professionalism in the workplace must be emphasized along with cooperation in discussing any issues without being overly emotional or rude. If two people do not get along then there is not much anyone can do other than explain that they should meet certain expectations within their job which includes actively listening, professionalism, and cooperation in resolving issues. Sometimes a talk between the two people who do not like each other with a neutral higher up can lead to a solution between them where they try to resolve any underlying issues.
Maya,
Communication is crucial to the success of any team, no matter the scenario. If communication is strained, the team chemistry will suffer. As a leader, it is best to try and remediate the situation as quickly as plossible so that the team can get back on track and complete the task. Sit down the team members and discuss what has created the rift between the parties involved. Sometimes it is something samll, but other times it is something large that might be harder to overcome. However I believe that the sooner any action is taken to smooth out the situation, the sooner things will "iron themselves out". Often ill-feelings left to fester will lead to larger rifts between parties and these can be harder to repair.
I feel communication is the way to good Team Management. Open discussions, sharing ideas and concerns. Problems or any issues can usually be resolved quickly.
Valerie ,
Remember too that some people are uncomfortable discussing diagreements in a group setting. You may also want to consider one-on-one sessions of bringing the two people who are disagreeing together for candid exchange.
Ron Obstfeld
It is always good to acknowledge the value of the other team members veiw. While in a meeting have the team members explain the reasons they disagree,this may bring light to where the problem stems from and you can take steps to resolve it quickly.
Kristina ,
It is always good to confront situations head on. If you don't, issues will fester and effect team morale, effectiveness and efficiency.
Ron Obstfeld
I have always believed you need to bring the negative to the light so everyone knows. Sometimes you just have to confront situations so the tension will subside.
I have always stated that perception is reality in this circumstance we should recognize our own part in the communication issues. I have tried to address issues with individuals who start to break down communication line. I am from a different region of the US than most of my coworkers. I recognize that this can be the issue at times.
Linda,
Agreed. The only way to resolve the issue is change the leadership or these issues will never be resolved. Unfortunately senior management does not always act quickly and decisively to solve these types of people issues but that should not deter anyone from for pursuing the correct path/
Ron Obstfeld
I think it's critical to point out that addressing the underlying issues will only work if the leadership is strong. If the team members are having personality conflicts for instance and the leadership is weak, then confronting the issues may not resolve the situation. Often team strife is escalated to involve more senior management, like the HR department, when some clear conversation between individuals involved would resolve underlying tensions. In my past experience, if the department head isn't comfortable or able to faciliatate a conversation between conflicting staff members, the whole team continues to suffer.
Deborah,
Agreed. Periodic surveys help strengthen a team and avoid many problems.
Ron Obstfeld
I really like the idea of a survery as well. This gives a good idea as to where the team players stand.
Sharon,
Great points Sharon. The key here lies in the team leadership. It is up to the leader to recognize these behaviors and then work to modify them. This will not only help the team but also change the behavior of the individuals preparing them for future teamwork.
Ron Obstfeld
It is hard to address underlying issues, but a lot of it is when one team member perceives something to be true about another team member when it may not in fact be. For example someone may dominate a meeting because they are passionate about the idea not because they are trying to exert their control. Or in a meeting when someone will not share ideas because they think they are not liked, so they will just sit and be quiet. Perception plays a huge role in team strife.
Keila,
Survey results can be a powerful tool to effect organizational and behavioral change. Try it!
Ron Obstfeld
The idea of the survey is fantastic. I wish everyone who is a leader think about that and truly cares about it results!
