In contrast to the previously common individual office, where employees surrounded by family photos and potted plants had their peace and quiet away from other colleagues, working life is increasingly taking place in open-plan offices to promote teamwork and communication. This is not only changing everyday office life, but also the way people interact with each other. Jürgen Rixgens is one of the most booked rhetoric professionals in the world. In this three-part series from a conversation in Hallbergmoos, he gives tips for more coherent communication. In this third part, he explains how to work together successfully in a confined space and how to maintain a relaxed working atmosphere.
Teamwork is an important soft skill in today’s working world that is expected of everyone. But how does it work in the office team in times of e-mail overload, globalization and increasing complexity?
Jürgen Rixgens: Treating each other with respect is the be-all and end-all. However, when people are upset, they often behave emotionally rather than purposefully. In disputes, however, they should keep their distance and observe: How do colleagues react to my point of view and how do I react to theirs? Holding up a mirror to yourself can help to change behavioral patterns in critical communication situations.
How do I stay calm when I don’t like a colleague’s behavior?
Jürgen Rixgens: A person’s dignity is inviolable, which is why a distinction should always be made between person and behavior. It helps to change the mental evaluation. The behavior may be displeasing, but the person as such is okay. This acceptance not only provides inner peace, it also makes it easier to deal with difficult colleagues. People often hastily make irrational assumptions, such as: “The colleague must meet my expectations.” Such assumptions should be denied: “His difficult behavior can be tolerated.”
How can I improve communication between myself and my colleagues in general?
Jürgen Rixgens: The most important thing is to listen well. People often don’t listen in order to understand the other person, but think about what they want to say to the other person while they are listening. If you devote your thoughts to the other person, you not only improve communication, but also your relationship with your colleagues in the long term. The sender-receiver model plays a major role here. Often the message is not received as intended. There are four types of message in a statement: factual information, speaker’s intention, reference to the relationship and appeal. By paying attention to and differentiating between all four tones, misunderstandings can be prevented and a more pleasant atmosphere created.
Thank you very much!
Images © Unsplash and Carolin Hirschfeld
