In today’s world, most of us spend more hours with our co-workers than with our family and friends. With such a significant amount of time spent around each other, it’s not uncommon to find oneself in an uncomfortable situation with a co-worker every now and then. However, have you ever been in a situation where you didn’t know how to speak your feelings, and you said nothing? Here’s why that can hurt you in the long-run and what you can do about it to improve your workplace dynamic. 

Communication is key to building strong relationships, and this applies to co-worker relationships too. When you’re in an uncomfortable situation with a co-worker and you don’t communicate your feelings to them, you’re essentially bottling up your emotions, and they’ll continue to fester. Over time, this will lead to frustration, stress, and anxiety, which can affect your work performance. Consequently, it’s essential to communicate your thoughts and feelings with your co-workers to avoid any unnecessary tension. 

Not communicating with your co-workers can also lead to misunderstandings and assumptions. Often, people will work together for long periods without actually understanding one another, which can result in problems arising from something as simple as a misinterpretation of a situation. This can be easily avoided by engaging in regular and open communication with your co-workers. Make an effort to get to know them, their likes and dislikes, and how they communicate best. 

Furthermore, suppressing your thoughts and feelings can lead to a build-up of resentment. If someone at work is constantly taking credit for your work or not pulling their weight, and you don’t speak up about it, then the situation will never change. You may end up resenting that person, which can lead to negative feelings that impact your well-being at work. By expressing your feelings to your co-workers and addressing any issues head-on, you’re taking proactive steps to improve your workplace dynamic and reduce the potential for future conflict. 

Additionally, speaking your mind at work not only benefits you but also your co-workers. Communication is a two-way street, and when everyone involved is open and transparent, it creates an environment of trust and respect. If you’re comfortable communicating with your co-workers about how their actions affect you, they will be more likely to reciprocate by sharing their perspectives with you. This will lead to a much healthier working relationship overall. 

Initiating Difficult Conversations:

Okay, you’re on board and you’re ready to speak your mind.  What are some things to keep in mind as you begin these difficult conversations?

1. Plan Ahead: Before the conversation, outline your key points. This will help you stay on track and express yourself clearly.
2. Choose the Right Time and Place: Find a quiet, private setting to avoid distractions and maintain confidentiality.
3. Active Listening: When speaking, remember to listen actively. Give your co-worker the opportunity to express their perspective.
4. Use “I” Statements: Express your feelings and thoughts using “I” statements to avoid sounding accusatory. For example, “I feel…” rather than “You always…”
5. Stay Calm and Professional: Emotions can run high in difficult conversations. Keep your cool, maintain a professional tone, and avoid confrontation.

Healthy workplace relationships depend on open and regular communication. By speaking your mind and addressing any potential issues that arise with co-workers, you can foster a more productive and collaborative work environment. However, it’s important to remember to communicate in a respectful and professional manner, so as not to create any animosity or unintentional conflict. Engaging in open, honest dialogue with your co-workers will help you build strong relationships and work towards a common goal, ultimately leading to a happier and more successful work environment.