A character trait that is needed in business right now
Stress levels in businesses are higher now than ever before. Millions have lost their jobs and those who are left are having to work harder. They are scared about losing their jobs too. But the worst of it is what people are doing to themselves and other people.
Conflict in the workplace is higher and it’s spilling over into everything, damaging relationships and undermining productivity.
Speaking to some of the survivors in companies and businesses and in certain instances providing mentoring and coaching to help quell untenable situations, I have come to realise that there is one very important character trait that is essential now when the stakes are so high.
I have been able to provide what one would call technical advice, in other words dealing directly with the situation at hand given my business experience and background in management and communications and organisational culture systems. These engagements have happily led to successful outcomes – but this has only really solved the surface problem.
Unfortunately, conflict will flare up again and the business people will be in the typical oscillation pattern so aptly described by Robert Fritz.
The snakes in suits or should we say when working from home the snakes in pyjamas, will be even more vicious now to prey on the weak and vulnerable.
While dysfunctional behaviour is tolerated and broken corporate cultures prevail, those working or trapped in the system have to learn how to cope.
Nothing beats having a healthy level of self-confidence. Confidence is something that is prized by some of the more advanced corporate cultures and business leaders. Let’s be clear, we are not talking about over confidence or arrogance. Not at all.
We are talking about a confidence that helps to handle the conflict so well that the corporate players, whether good or evil, become part of a game where you are able to distance yourself and generate appropriate responses when attacked, demeaned, belittled, taken advantage of, abused, etc.
It’s a pity that there isn’t a game such as Dungeons & Dragons or PlayerUnknown’s BattleGrounds that would help people in business to better play in the real world of business where good and evil prevails fighting for scarce resources, outgunning one another, pushing and shoving and coming out as the top dog.
While there are many ways to gain self-confidence to stand up to the rigours of the business world, I have one solution and that is in the area of business writing.
Business writing today is pervasive because of digital communications as well as work from home. You need strong business writing skills to come to agreements, ward off unfriendly foes and prevent yourself from being trampled on.
The Better Business Writing course will increase your confidence in writing. The course covers business writing in six easy lessons. The Better Business Writing Course is available on either on these websites:
https://business-writing-academy.teachable.com/
Chesney Bradshaw has more than 30 years business experience in commerce and industry including business writing, producing magazines, writing coaching, corporate communications and sustainability management. He is author of the books “Better Business Writing Guide” and “Breakthrough Ideas”. He also mentors and coaches businesspeople in communications and business writing with confidence and less frustration through quick practical tips and examples from his years of business experience.
