My Way Or The Highway

It can be very challenging and discouraging to support someone else’s ideas, especially when we think our way is the best. There’s a lot of emphasis on being a good team player for top leaders, managers and front line folks. Can we use values and a protocol to make teams and leaders work better? Look for ways to capitalize on the good aspects of teamwork, and minimize some of the downside. The values of collaboration and teamwork can impact internal and external service positively.

Teamwork means sharing knowledge and inspiration with each other and treating all people with courtesy and dignity. It means honoring others' original work and giving appropriate credit. People who feel supported are more likely to deliver good service. This doesn’t mean avoid conflict, but rather to find constructive ways for people to disagree, to be heard, and to resolve their differences.

Why not include “respect” in your protocol or code of ethics. True service comes from being respectful and honoring the diversity of each individual. Teamwork and service means being sensitive to others. Are we modeling respectful attitudes and language? Is our humor appropriate? Is our language culturally sensitive? Again, this can be a fruitful facilitated discussion at an off-site meeting or during an extended meeting where there’s plenty of time to hear from everyone.

Customers, employees, and leaders benefit from the practice of high ethical standards. Ethical decisions are based on deep personal and organizational values. An active protocol or code of ethics can remind us to behave from the highest place of integrity, responsibility and excellence. Let’s celebrate the dignity within as we honor the dignity in one another.