2. Promoting Respect and Avoiding Harassment
3. Unacceptable Social Behaviors in the Workplace
4. Knowledge Check: Recognizing Principles of Respect
5. Benefits of a Respectful Workplace
After completing this topic, you should be able to
[The Skillsoft logo displays. Course: Global Workplace Harassment Prevention for Employees.]
[Workplace harassment is real. The emotional devastation is real. These victims are real.] ]
CHRIS: [Chris is a young white male.] I never thought this would happen. I'm a guy, it doesn't happen to guys.
DANIELLE: [Danielle is a young, white female.] I just felt so violated by this person that I thought was you know at least a friend.
RACHANEE: [Rachanee is an Asian woman.] I just felt so trapped and I felt so helpless.
SAM: [Sam is an older, white male.] It was all I could do, to not freak out.
RONNELL: [Ronnell is a young black male.] You kind of become numb to any type of discrimination.
SOPHIA: [Sophia is a Hispanic woman.] It just brings back those memories of like you're not good enough, and you're not wanted. And that was really hard for me.
MYAH: [Myah is a black woman.] I definitely didn't feel like I would be believed, mostly because that's what I had seen in the media.
SAM: I never told anyone else about that experience.
SUNSHINE: [Sunshine is an older white female.] Before I went to work, it was insane dread.
CHRIS: I felt that my job was jeopardized, that I felt powerless, I mean, those feelings I didn't know that people who have experienced sexual harassment felt.
SARAH: [Sarah is a young white female.] It doesn't matter, you know, how hard you put your head down or try to assimilate into the culture, if the culture is not supportive of you being a woman.
HOST: Harassment is not a word anyone likes to hear. It brings to mind uncomfortable images and upsetting situations. Some may never have encountered harassment, but others will have all too vivid memories of exactly what it feels like.
At this point, it seems like workplace harassment should be a thing of the past, and hopefully our world is moving closer to that every day. The fastest way to achieve that goal is with education because, to quote Maya Angelou, “When you know better, you do better.”
While the modern global workplace presents exciting opportunities, it can also create challenges for companies and their employees.
It’s the duty of all employees to treat each other with respect, and you should follow your company’s antiharassment policies no matter where you’re located geographically.
After completing this topic, you should be able to
JAMES: [James and Christopher are sitting in a conference room. James is looking at his phone.] (ANNOYED) I hope we get started soon.
CHRISTOPHER: Allison's usually here on time.
JAMES: I really need to make a phone call.
JESSICA: [Jessica walks in and sits down.] Hey guys. Allison is stuck on a conference call. She asked me to get the meeting started for her.
JAMES: You?
JESSICA: Yes.
JAMES: Why you?
JESSICA: Because I'm leading the project and because I was in her office when she got pulled onto a conference call.
JAMES: Whatever. So, let's go already.
JESSICA: [James picks his phone up off the table and looks at it.] OK. Projections. Christopher, I see you're expecting the project to take another two weeks.
CHRISTOPHER: Yeah. About that long.
JESSICA: Well, I know Allison needs us to move things along faster. That's why we're here.
JAMES: Faster?
JESSICA: That's what she told me.
JAMES: How are we supposed to do that?
CHRISTOPHER: Well, that's what we're here to discuss. What if we were to end the beta phase early and move right into the final pre-launch testing phase?
JAMES: [James is typing on his phone. The others are waiting for him to respond. Jessica clears her throat.] What?
JESSICA: What do you think of Christopher's idea?
JAMES: Wasn't listening.
JESSICA: He suggested that we could initiate the pre-launch testing phase early.
JAMES: That's just stupid.
JESSICA: [Christopher turns towards James with a disbelieving look on his face.] Really, James?
ALLISON: [Allison walks in and sits down.] I'm sorry everyone. Jessica, thank you for kicking things off. So, where are we?
JESSICA: Christopher just suggested that we could go straight into the pre-launch phase we were -
JAMES: And I was saying that it's a stupid idea to cut the beta phase early.
ALLISON: Whoa, whoa, whoa. In here no one's ideas are stupid. I am interested to hear why you think we shouldn't do that, but Jessica was speaking.
Jessica?
JESSICA: Well, it was Christopher's idea. Maybe he should explain.
CHRISTOPHER: [James is distracted by his phone again.] Well, we've gotten some really good data from the beta testing and we haven't had any new reports in the last two weeks.
ALLISON: [Allison notices James typing on his phone.] James. Something urgent? Do you need to step out?
JAMES: No.
ALLISON: OK then. What are your thoughts?
JAMES: I think that we can't stop the beta phase early because we're just asking for problems, OK? Look at what happened to the Anthro app. We don't want to deal with another nightmare like that again.
ALLISON: I can't disagree with you there, but if you'd been listening to Christopher just now you would've heard that we've haven't had any new reports from the beta testers in over two weeks. That's not the case with the other app. I think moving up pre-launch testing is worth considering. So, Jessica, if you could be our point person? I think you've done an excellent job with leading the team. You and I can get together on the details. We can bring the rest of team in at that time. And I think we can make this work. Are there any questions? OK, great job you guys. I appreciate everyone. Thank you.
HOST: In a global workplace, there are common standards of behavior expected throughout the organization. These standards are built on a foundation of respect between all employees, and you are responsible for being a good citizen of your organization by following them.
Everyone deserves respect and courtesy and should be valued. It’s every employee’s responsibility to help cultivate a respectful and harassment-free work environment. It’s never okay to do or say anything that would demean or humiliate a coworker. That kind of behavior fuels a toxic and unhealthy culture. Angry outbursts, sarcasm, and condescension have no place on the job. Instead, courteous and respectful interactions should be the goal at all times.
Courteous communication – like saying please and thank you – can be easy to forget in a stressful moment, but it goes a long way toward showing your coworkers that they are valued and respected. In meetings, listen politely when others speak and don’t interrupt or talk over them.
Be careful with written communication like email. Remember that tone does not come through in print and a casual joke can come off completely differently from the way you intend to the recipient.
Sometimes inappropriate behavior or rude remarks are the result of someone just not thinking about how their actions may impact others. For example, an employee may not realize that their jokes about a coworker’s age are hurtful, or that a cartoon they think is funny may be offensive to someone else.
Take pride in making your workplace one where sensitivity and respect are valued. You can achieve this by thinking of other people’s perspectives before you speak and act.
Harassment is a particular kind of disrespectful and unwelcome behavior that is based on a person’s age, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, disability, or other personal characteristics. It can take many forms. It can be verbal, like off-color jokes, offensive language, or derogatory comments. Or nonverbal, like provocative signs, pictures, text messages, or posts on social media. Or, it can be physical, like unwelcome touching or blocking someone’s movement.
Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors – especially in return for work-related benefits – or any other type of unwanted physical or verbal conduct of a sexual nature. The victim of harassment does not need to be the direct target of the bad behavior. Anyone who witnesses it may be impacted by the harassment.
The harasser’s intention is not the controlling factor in determining if something is harassment. The effect on the victim is what matters most. Behavior crosses the line when it would be considered offensive by a reasonable person. So what can you do? First, avoid making comments about a person’s age, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, disability, or anything of that nature. Instead, appreciate and be sensitive to the differences in cultures, backgrounds, attitudes, personalities, and life experiences that you’ll find among your colleagues.
Don’t tolerate harassment of yourself or others. Keep in mind that anti-harassment laws vary from place to place, but any harassing behavior covered by your company’s policy should be avoided. And don’t engage in intimidation, exclusionary behavior, or bullying of any kind - including cyberbullying. Be supportive of your colleagues. If you encounter inappropriate or harassing behavior, whether it’s happening to you or a coworker, it’s your responsibility to speak up. Don’t assume someone else will report it or that HR is already aware of the situation.
After completing this topic, you should be able to
HOST: Being part of a global organization can mean that you're working with a diverse group of people representing many different nationalities and backgrounds, often spread out all over the globe. Your coworkers may have vastly different realities and life experiences than your own. This can make for a great opportunity for growth and creativity, but it can also lead to cultural misunderstandings. For example, people use clothing to express their personality, culture, and even their religious beliefs. Be respectful of how people choose to dress and don't use it as an opportunity to mock, insult, or demean them. Just because someone may dress differently does not mean they're less capable or good at their jobs.
Be sensitive to the differences in social behaviors between cultures. Some societies are more reserved, quiet, and deferential, while other cultures tend to be more boisterous, direct, and brusque. Don't assume that because people act differently from the way you do, they are unfriendly or deliberately being rude.
Be aware of misunderstandings that can happen between different cultures. For example, nodding in one culture may mean agreement, but it can have the opposite meaning in another. American employees often act casually with their managers and are comfortable calling them by their first names. But this may seem disrespectful or off-putting to someone from a culture with a more formal or rigid social structure.
Let's talk about a few other types of disrespectful behavior that you should be aware of and work to avoid.
First, there's discourtesy. Rudeness or discourteousness should not be permitted in the workplace at any time. Belittling comments, yelling, and sarcasm can be particularly damaging. Instead, aim for politeness and courtesy in all interactions.
Next is deliberately undermining a colleague. Undermining can take different forms, including disparaging comments about someone's work product, refusing to assist them when needed, sabotaging their efforts, or taking credit for their work. Try instead to foster an atmosphere of encouragement and support.
It's easy for people to fall into the habit of stereotyping others. Stereotyping downplays an individual's uniqueness and reinforces superficial judgments made without taking the time to get to know someone. Make an effort to get to know your coworkers as individuals. And watch out for any tendency to make assumptions about them based on their cultural background or personal characteristics.
Finally, there's social exclusion. Shunning or isolating someone is a particularly hurtful form of disrespect. Things like work lunches or teambuilding and social activities should be open to everyone. No one individual should ever be deliberately left out.
Your company's anti-harassment policy is designed to protect everyone in the workplace from all forms of harassment and other inappropriate behaviors. It outlines ways to report harassment and explains how allegations of harassment will be investigated and addressed. Be sure to become familiar with the policy, and refer to it as a resource if you have questions or need guidance.
Another important point is that retaliation for reporting harassment is absolutely prohibited. Employees should feel comfortable coming forward if they have experienced or witnessed misconduct – in fact, reporting misconduct is essential so the company can address problem behaviors as quickly as possible.
HOST: OK, now that we've covered that, next you'll have the chance to practice what you've learned so far. When you've finished, we'll resume the training.
After completing this topic, you should be able to
Think back to the situation in the team meeting with James and Jessica.
Which principles of a respectful workplace were violated there?
Options:
Option 1: James violated the principle of valuing his coworkers. He undermined both Jessica's and Christopher's dignity by indicating his disdain for Jessica's ability to lead a meeting and for dismissing Christopher's suggestion without giving it any thought.
Option 2: James violated the principle of communicating courteously, by paying more attention to texting on his phone than listening to the discussion he was supposed to be part of. And when he did join in, his remark about Christopher's suggestion was rude.
Option 3: James never considered anyone else's perspective other than his own because he was too self-involved with his phone. He should have asked questions to learn more about Christopher's suggestion, and taken an active part in the meeting instead of giving off the vibe that he had better things to do.
Option 4: Actually, Jessica did a great job of supporting Christopher when his suggestion was immediately criticized as being "stupid" by James. And Allison was supportive of Christopher when James continued to belittle his idea.
Option 5: This is not a principle of a respectful workplace. In a respectful workplace you should speak up if you see something going on that is disrespectful of a coworker. Both Jessica and Allison spoke up on Christopher's behalf when James treated him rudely and dismissed his idea as stupid. In a respectful workplace, people should be free to speak when they have something to say, as long as they do so with courtesy and tact.
Correct answer(s):
While James's behavior wouldn't rise to the level of unlawful harassment, it was certainly unprofessional and inappropriate. As well as interfering with the business of the meeting, it can have a negative impact on the team's morale.
What were some of the ways in which James was disrespectful?
Options:
Option 1: One indication of James's disrespect was that he undermined the efforts of his coworkers by never fully engaging in the meeting until Allison joined. This made it clear that he didn't think the others were worthy of his attention.
Option 2: The fact that James had what he deemed as important business to attend to isn't an excuse. It's inappropriate to attend a meeting and direct your attention someplace other than on the meeting itself.
Option 3: When Jessica asked James what he thought about Christopher's idea, James told her he wasn't listening. Then, when she summarized the idea, he said Christopher's suggestion was stupid. As with other forms of disrespect, undermining indicates a failure to value your colleagues and their contributions.
Option 4: James was clearly not engaged in the discussion, even though his opinion was being sought.
Option 5: There's nothing inherently disrespectful about expressing disagreement, so long as it's done tactfully. But James didn't bother to consider that Christopher had thought through his suggestion, and because he wasn't paying attention, he didn't hear a key piece of information that made Christopher's suggestion a good one.
Correct answer(s):
Which two actions do you think would contribute to creating a respectful work environment?
Options:
Option 1: This action wouldn't contribute to a respectful environment. Polite communication at all times is essential to a respectful workplace, and it is impolite to raise your voice with a coworker under any circumstances. It would be fair to communicate how your colleague's lateness impacted your work, but this should be done without being rude.
Option 2: This is the type of action that could create a disrespectful environment. If your coworker has made it clear that these jokes are not wanted, you are being disrespectful by continuing to send them.
Option 3: Taking this action would support a respectful environment. It's never a good idea to ignore rude behavior if you become aware of it. Discussing the matter privately with your coworker could help bring the importance of the situation to her attention so she can avoid similar conduct in the future. Or, you could seek help from your manager or HR if you are not comfortable confronting your coworker directly.
Option 4: This action shows respect. Asking a colleague's opinion acknowledges that you value his insights and shows your respect for his viewpoint.
Option 5: It's disrespectful to make assumptions about a person based on their age (or, for that matter, other characteristics like race, nationality, religion, or sex). Each person should be respected and valued as an individual.
Correct answer(s):
After completing this topic, you should be able to
ALLISON: [Allison walks towards Ashleigh.] Ashleigh, were there any calls while I was out?
ASHLEIGH: A couple, I put them through to your voicemail, but nothing anyone said was urgent.
ALLISON: Great. And is everything ready for the meeting this afternoon?
ASHLEIGH: All set. The bakery is dropping off the tray of cookies at 2:30. And I'll have the conference room all set up and ready by 3:00.
ALLISON: Perfect. And the copies of the project outline are all done?
ASHLEIGH: All done.
ALLISON: Good job. Thank you. [Allison starts to walk away.]
ASHLEIGH: Allison, do you have a minute?
ALLISON: Sure. [Allison turns and walks back to Ashleigh, looking concerned.]
ASHLEIGH: I've been meaning to ask for your advice. We have a new delivery driver. Well, he started like a month or so ago and the last couple weeks, every single day when he comes in, he makes all these comments about like how I look and keeps asking for my number. And it's just kind of creepy. And I…I…I've tried to discourage him, but he just…I dunno…he can't take a hint, I guess.
ALLISON: [Allison sighs heavily.] Oh, that's not good. So you told him to stop and he hasn't?
ASHLEIGH: Yeah. And I've tried to be professional, but he's just not getting the message. [Allison looks disturbed.] You know, he's around the corner dropping off some boxes. He'll be back soon. Maybe you could hang around and see what I mean?
ALLISON: Sure, I'll stay close.
ASHLEIGH: Thank you. [Allison walks away.]
DELIVERY DRIVER: [The delivery driver enters, carrying two boxes. He walks towards Ashleigh.] Lookin' good today, Ashleigh. [He smiles.]
ASHLEIGH: [Ashleigh tries to smile.] Hi.
DELIVERY DRIVER: [The delivery driver places the boxes on Ashleigh's desk and leans over the desk towards her.] Nice dress. Let me see the whole outfit. [He leans over and looks at her backside. Ashleigh looks uncomfortable and wary.] Oh, I like it.
ASHLEIGH: Thank you. [Ashleigh shakes her head and does not look at him.]
DELIVERY DRIVER: So, is today my lucky day?
ASHLEIGH: What do you mean?
DELIVERY DRIVER: You finally going to agree to go out with me?
ASHLEIGH: No. [She shakes her head.]
DELIVERY DRIVER: Ah, you're breaking my heart. [He puts his hands over his heart.] Come on let me change your mind.
ASHLEIGH: I don't think I'm going to.
DELIVERY DRIVER: C'mon, give me a chance. Get to know the real me. Just one date, alright. [Hardeep, Mark, and Allison notice the delivery guy.] I promise, you won't regret it. [Allison walks towards Ashleigh.]
ASHLEIGH: I'm not interested.
ALLISON: Seems to me she pretty clearly said no. [Allison steps in between Ashleigh and the delivery guy.]
DELIVERY DRIVER: Yeah. OK. [The delivery driver backs away from Ashleigh's desk and notices Hardeep and Mark in the background.]
ALLISON: Message received? [Allison steps towards the delivery driver and he takes another step back.]
DELIVERY DRIVER: Loud and clear.
ALLISON: Make sure it is.
DELIVERY DRIVER: Got it. [He retrieves his clipboard and exits.]
ALLISON: [Allison addresses Ashleigh.] Wow. [Allison looks shocked.] You weren't kidding. That was way over the line.
ASHLEIGH: Yeah. Thank you for stepping in like that. I really appreciate it. [Ashleigh still looks uncomfortable.]
ALLISON: I'm going to talk to Kimberly in HR right now and let her know what's going on. We need to be in touch with the delivery company.
ASHLEIGH: Thank you.
ALLISON: You okay?
ASHLEIGH: Yeah. I am. [Ashleigh nods. Allison exits.]
MATT: [ Matt addresses Jessica and Zack. They're sitting at a boardroom table.] OK, so we're all clear on how we're putting the meeting together?
JESSICA: I've got my part all ready to go.
ZACK: Me too.
MATT: [Matt smiles.] Okay, I guess that just leaves us then. [Zack addresses Ashleigh, who is also at the boardroom table.]
ASHLEIGH: I just have to get those numbers from Naomi and then I'll have the report all set. So, I should be able to have it to you before the end of the day. [Ashleigh smiles.]
MATT: I guess that just leaves me then. [Everyone laughs.] So, the proposal.
ASHLEIGH: [Ashleigh picks up and looks at her phone.] Sorry. I have to deal with this real quick. I'll be right back. [Ashleigh leaves the room and both men stare after her.]
ZACK: [Zack turns to Matt and leans in.] Man did you see how hot she looks today? [Jessica overhears the conversation between Zack and Matt, and looks at them disapprovingly.]
MATT: Yeah. That's to be fair, she always looks hot. [Jessica stares at Matt.]
ZACK: She keeps saying no, but it's only a matter of time before she succumbs to my charms. [Zack winks and smiles at Matt.]
MATT: You? Charms? [Matt teases Zack.]
ZACK: Yes. Me. Charms. [Jessica stares at the men, unimpressed.] What? You doubt my ability to woo a woman?
MATT: Woo? What are you 85?
ZACK: Yes woo. I have charms… many, many charms with which I woo the ladies. [Jessica looks like she wants to say something.]
MATT: If you say so.
JESSICA: Did you ever think that maybe she's just not interested? [Jessica addresses Zack.]
ZACK: In this? [Zack gestures to himself. Jessica makes an unimpressed face.] What woman wouldn't be interested in all of this? [Zack smirks.]
MATT: Plenty. I'll bet. [Matt smiles at Zack.]
ZACK: Nope. [Zack points at Matt.] With the right motivation, she'll see what I have to offer and soon she'll be falling at my feet. [Zack smiles and points to his feet.]
MATT: [Matt shakes his head, disbelievingly.] If you say so.
JESSICA: [Jessica is upset.] Enough already! Okay, I can't take this anymore. You both have crossed the line too many times. [Matt and Zack look taken aback.]
You're talking about Ashleigh like she's an object, not a person! It's completely inappropriate for the office.
MATT: Oh, lighten up. [Matt smiles.]
ZACK: We're just having a little fun. If you don't like it, you don't have to listen.
JESSICA: I've had it. You can finish this meeting without me. [Jessica stalks out of the boardroom.]
ZACK: [Zack throws his hands in the air and laughs.] Jessica, I mean, c'mon!
HOST: Treating colleagues and coworkers with respect helps to create a workplace where all employees are free from disrespectful and harassing behaviors, which is good for everyone.
It helps avoid misunderstandings and miscommunication, which can cause tension and bad feelings between you and your colleagues. In a workplace where mutual respect thrives, there is often a greater cultural awareness and sensitivity. In that kind of environment people are less likely to engage in inappropriate or harassing behaviors, making everyone feel more safe.
This kind of environment makes work more enjoyable, increases productivity for the whole team, and smooths the way for open communication. Where there is disrespect, it’s more likely you’ll find higher rates of turnover and higher stress levels among employees.
You’ll also find that when you embrace the uniqueness of each of your coworkers, you are much more likely to form professional and friendly working relationships. And that’s a good thing, right?
After completing this topic, you should be able to
HOST: Creating a respectful workplace is everyone’s responsibility. You always have a choice in how you behave and how you respond to your fellow employees in any situation.
Start with simple courtesy in all your interactions and treat others the way you would want to be treated. Expand on that by using supportive behaviors. For example, if you disagree with a colleague’s position on an issue, ask questions and try to understand their point of view. Be accepting of values and opinions that may differ from your own. Empathize with difficulties a coworker may be experiencing. Express appreciation when someone does something well.
Resist opportunities to belittle or disparage others. Don’t offer unsolicited advice; but if asked, give constructive feedback rather than criticism. Don’t intentionally exclude or shun any of your coworkers. Be inclusive when it comes to lunches, breaks, or group activities.
Be mindful of non-verbal communication. Remember that many times, looks and actions speak much louder than words. Avoid rolling your eyes, looking annoyed, sighing, or signaling displeasure or annoyance through other nonverbal behaviors.
These are just some of the ways you can consciously contribute to a welcoming and positive environment for all. Being respectful doesn’t have to take a lot of effort, but it can offer many benefits for everyone.
HOST: Let’s take a short break for some practice questions. After you’ve finished, we’ll pick up here.
After completing this topic, you should be able to
Respectful workplaces have a number of characteristics that reflect basic principles of inclusion and respect.
Which three statements are characteristic of a respectful workplace?
Options:
Option 1: This is a correct option. Valuing each employee's contributions is an essential feature of a respectful workplace. It's important to value each employee as a human being and as someone who contributes to the goals of the organization.
Option 2: This is a correct option. Polite communication is indicative of a healthy, respectful workplace. Coworkers shouldn't raise their voices, trade insults, or undermine each other.
Option 3: This is a correct option. A workplace is not genuinely respectful if harassment, intimidation, or bullying is tolerated.
Option 4: This is an unrealistic expectation for any workplace. It is impossible to eliminate all conflict from the workplace, and some conflict may be productive. A respectful workplace is one where conflict is handled in a manner where opposing positions are respected and explored rather than simply dismissed.
Correct answer(s):
Which four statements describe some of the potential benefits of a respectful workplace?
Options:
Option 1: A workplace where employees are valued and where communication is polite and constructive boosts everyone's self-esteem and promotes a healthy team spirit.
Option 2: When people feel good about themselves and their colleagues, they are better able to get their work done. They can also pool their knowledge and skills more easily, which enhances productivity.
Option 3: Criticism is sometimes necessary if you are to improve at your job. What's important is that it should be constructive criticism rather than nit-picking or personalized criticism. In a respectful workplace, necessary criticism will be delivered in a constructive way.
Option 4: A respectful workplace is one where all employees are valued and communication is consistently polite. This creates an environment where challenges can be addressed in a positive manner. This does not mean that the workplace will be free of criticism or negative emotions, but colleagues will be more likely to deal with these issues in a tactful and constructive way.
Option 5: A respectful workplace need not be one where every employee likes everyone else they work with. This would be unrealistic. However, it does create an atmosphere where regardless of the personal feelings one might have for another, employees treat each other cordially and with professionalism.
Option 6: Sometimes inappropriate behavior may be the result of ignorance and misunderstanding. In a workplace that values and promotes respect, there tends to be greater awareness of and sensitivity to what could be offensive to others.
Correct answer(s):
Consider this scenario. A colleague, Ramona, has asked you to review a presentation she will deliver to the executive team next week. You found that the data in the presentation was well presented, but the conclusions weren't explained clearly enough. Ramona asks you what you thought of the presentation.
Which response would best demonstrate respect?
Options:
Option 1: This response is inappropriate. It fails to express appreciation for what was done well in the presentation. As a result, it comes off as discouraging and could undermine Ramona's confidence instead of helping her improve.
Option 2: This is not the best response. While it supports Ramona by pointing out the specific aspect of her presentation that went well, it would show better support by being more honest. You should let her know, in a tactful way, the concerns you had about the conclusions so she can improve this aspect of the next presentation.
Option 3: This response is inappropriate for two reasons. First, it fails to mention anything positive about Ramona's presentation. Also, it's more of a personal criticism than a specific response to the presentation. This kind of response will do nothing to support Ramona in her efforts to improve. More than likely, it will only set her back.
Option 4: This response is appropriate because it acknowledges what Ramona did well and is honest about what she could improve. The criticism is offered in a constructive and tactful manner.
Correct answer(s):
Now consider this scenario. Jeffrey has been assigned to a project in an area where he has no experience. He knows that you've completed several of these projects, and he comes to you for advice.
How should you respond?
Options:
Option 1: This response is definitely inappropriate. One clear way of showing that you value your colleagues is to support them when they need it. Denying Jeffrey assistance in this case without even an excuse is a clear failure to demonstrate respect and is likely to damage your working relationship with him.
Option 2: This is inappropriate. This is not only failing to support Jeffrey, but the sarcasm in this reply adds insult to injury. For some people, sarcasm seems to come naturally, and it's hard to resist. But it's worth the effort, because sarcasm is very often a thinly veiled way of being insulting. Even if you don't intend to offend the other person, it's not worth risking a misunderstanding.
Option 3: This is an appropriate response. It supports Jeffrey in a practical way and not making him feel you are doing him a big favor.
Correct answer(s):
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