Professional Relationships - Insight
In business we often hear the phrase - "it's just business". Sometimes it's used in ways to excuse poor behaviour or to explain decisions that have a weakness in a rationale.
Sometimes it's entirely positive. "we do this because that's our business, it's just business".
More and more businesses are pushing the lines of what family is - you are in our organization, therefore we're family. Trust, loyalty, progress and development. Blood and water mingling.
It can often happen that a figure of authority can want to have a chat about a change that needs to be made. It's perfectly appropriate and communication is at the core of making sustainable progress.
Chatting amongst friends about a topic of mutual interest can very different to a "business chat".
As the recipient of that change it's worthwhile to recognize that we may be in a negotiation.
Negotiations take time, they take professionalism and an ability to listen. Usually the person bringing the change has a handle on their own style, there has been some degree of learning about the content of the strategy and what to and what not to talk about. All in the spirit of making change happen in an inclusive way while soliciting opinion. #careerdevelopment
When we receive news that may seem unfavourable there are a few pointers to bear in mind:
Professional courtesy and politeness - this is business after all and the lines of family and business become a little less blurred. Adhering to the principles of professionalism will keep you on a more even path.
Being calm and business like - this is not a friendly chat over a cup of tea. This conversation will have an effect on your working life. It's appropriate to be curious and question the decision in a positive way. In business there are options, some more palatable than others, but there are always options.
Recognize your own contribution in a measured way in your own mind - when we do, we can be confident without being showy about the value brought to the organization. Put your voice to it. The old truism about "just being a number" has only the importance you give it.
Check out my blog on personality styles, this can help get more clarity while in discussion
Most people value their roles and want to their best, no matter their level of seniority. There is a gratitude for the salaries and the opportunities provided by having a sustainable income. They enjoy the company of the people they work with. When it comes to change it would be an advantage to recognize that change involves a negotiation, it involves giving and taking, and it's worthwhile being prepared and becoming more familiar with the practice of negotiation. What are the do's and don'ts for career development?
Often resentment or anger as emotions can come to the fore in negotiations, by keeping this in check and focussing on those points of differentiation and similarity between family and organizations we can better understand the nature of business and put ourselves in a position to negotiate respectfully, and what's more deal with the outcome.
So true
I enjoyed this...😀
yes..being professional. Thanks