The other day someone asked me how I ran the few businesses I had in my other life. I explained that I wasn’t alone in the companies. I had a partner. Even though we worked extremely different due to personality and characteristics, I can say that I prided myself in being available and present to our employees, whereas my partner blew off the handle at any little thing, I chose to mediate. It wasn’t that I was always in agreement, but I was able to separate my feelings and try to get to a middle ground.One of the most important things I have learned in the business world is that often times we don’t realize that what we think is important for a company doesn’t necessarily adhere to its employees. I think that the ability to surrender plans, dreams, goals and expectations is what builds positive relationships in the workplace. One of the most important ingredients in the workplace (and uniting employees with employers) is choosing a direction that everyone can feel is comfortable for the environment. It’s important to identify, engage, and internalize cultural diversity along the way. In every business there is cultural diversity. I come from a Hispanic community and the majority of my employees were Hispanic. I went out of my way to make the few who weren’t Hispanic feel comfortable. It’s all about being consciously present in your company and being humble to learn from other cultures as well. Here are some tips:
- Brush up on your social skills
- Always be present and listen
- Don’t feel like you have to push-back or defend yourself immediately
- Be humble and apologize whenever necessary
- Be positive and resolve issues in a constructive manner
- Reward efforts which will build stronger relationships
- Have group incentives
- Always thank the person for speaking openly to you even if it goes against what you think
- Stand back and reflect
These points also go a long way in personal relationships. Being present, listening, and allowing the connection of another soul to bring magic to your space is priceless. Positive relationships go hand in hand, like a huge hug, with cultural diversity. Regardless of the issues, a smile, understanding, and humility go a long way for anyone.
