By Marcia Eager, LCSW
Solutions Program Coordinator

Co-workers:

Many workplaces have become more stressful in the past few years due to many varying circumstances. We are asked to do more with less and be more creative with what we have to work with. This can often lead to less tolerance for others and increased stress and frustration for employees . How we respond to these pressures becomes more important as our stress and frustrations increase. One does not have to like all your co-workers, but as adults we are expected to treat each other with respect and kindness.

What are some things we can all do to increase our tolerance of the differences within our workplace?

} Talk to a co-worker you have never spoken to before and make it a point to learn something about them.

} Fight against the “just like me” bias – the tendency to favor those who are similar to ourselves.

} Reach out to a new employee and help them feel invited and welcome to their new workplace.

} Understand that people come from many different cultures, family situations and socio-economical backgrounds. Talk to them about those differences and risk learning something new.

} Reach out to someone you perceive as different yourself and take this opportunity to learn about their background and culture. You may be amazed by what you learn.

} Do not participate or tolerate “bullying” behavior. Think about how you would feel if you were the one being bullied. This behavior should be reported. If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem.

} Arrange for a lunch forum on topics of diverse cultural and social interest or hold a diversity pot-luck lunch. Invite co-workers to bring dishes that reflect their cultural heritage.

} Small considerate gestures can make difference. Say hello to co-workers as you enter your workplace in the morning. Smile – even if you don’t mean it. As the saying goes – it makes them wonder what you are up to!

We know these are general suggestions for a wide range of workplaces, so let us know if you have specific ideas that would work in your workplace - feel free to email us.

Call Solutions EAP at 1-800-526-3485 for assistance for all of life's challenges.
It’s free, confidential and open to your family members.

George "Bud" Wassell, M.S., LPC, CEAP
Director, Solutions EAP
213 Court Street
Middletown, CT 06457
1-800-526-3485
fax: 860-704-6221
www.solutions-eap.com